Personal Decisions in the Public Square: Beyond Problem Solving into a Positive Sociology

by Stebbins,Robert A.

• ISBN13: 9781412808262
• ISBN10: 141280826X
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2009-01-15
• Publisher: Routledge

Summary

"This book looks into how, why, and when people pursue those things in life that they desire, the things they do to make their existence attractive and worth living. Robert A. Stebbins calls this "Positive Sociology;' the study of what people do to organize their lives such that they become substantially rewarding, satisfying, and fulfilling. For most people in Western society, there is much more to life than eliminating or adequately controlling crime, drug addiction, urban pollution, daily stress, domestic violence, and overpopulation. Significant levels of success in these areas bring a noticeable measure of tranquility to people substantially affected by them, but they do not, in themselves, generate positiveness in daily life."--BOOK JACKET.

Table of Contents

Preface	p. xi
Acknowledgements	p. xv
Three Domains of Activity	p. 1
A History of Work, Leisure, and Obligation	p. 29
Balancing Work, Leisure, and Obligation	p. 45
Personal Development	p. 67
The Confident Self	p. 87
Community Involvement	p. 101
What Really Counts?	p. 125
References	p. 149
Index	p. 157
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