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Group Life

An Invitation to Local Sociology
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Group Life by Tim Hallett and Gary Alan Fine delves into the intricate dynamics of small group interactions and their impact on larger societal structures. The book explores how group mechanisms influence individual behaviour and contribute to the formation of collective identities. Through a sociological lens, it provides insights into the roles and rituals that sustain group life, making it an informative resource in the field of Education & Reference.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$3799
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're fascinated by the dynamics of group interactions and the subtle forces that influence group behaviour. It explores the intricate interplay of social practices and collective identity, making it ideal for those curious about how structure and social norms shape group life in various settings. Whether you're an educator, a student of sociology, or just keen on understanding the complexities of human interaction, this book offers insightful perspectives.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Sociological analysis is replete with debates about “micro” and “macro,” individual and society, but all too often these miss the point: interacting groups are the hinge that connects the two. To understand how structures matter and how individuals navigate them, we must take groups and people in local communities seriously.

Gary Alan Fine and Tim Hallett skillfully argue that sociologists have the obligation to examine the role of small communities in the creation of both the interaction order and structural realities. With novel concepts and rich ethnographic examples, Group Life describes how group commitments shape selves and society, emphasizing the importance of a meso-level approach to social organization. Fine and Hallett provide new models of identity, culture, conflict, and control, and consider how a network of groups can provide insight into extended communication channels and social media lattices. Ultimately, they show that, despite the importance of institutions and individuals, group life is the fundamental building block of community.

This timely book makes the case for a local sociology that includes sociality. It will be a welcome resource for students and sociologists, and a necessary call to action for the discipline as a whole.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Group Life by Tim Hallett and Gary Alan Fine is praised for its insightful approach to sociology, emphasising the importance and influence of local groups. The book revitalises interest in group dynamics and their role in shaping social interactions, providing a fresh perspective amidst contemporary sociological themes. It is noted for its originality and potential as a reference in ongoing and future sociological studies, with scholars appreciating its commitment to breaking free from conventional frameworks.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781509554140

Publisher: John Wiley and Sons Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 07 October 2022

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Polity Press

Audience: Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 20.0mm

Width: 137.0mm

Height: 213.0mm

Weight: 295g

Pages: 224

About the Author

Gary Alan Fine is James E. Johnson Professor of Sociology at Northwestern University.
Tim Hallett is Professor of Sociology at Indiana University Bloomington.

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