The sociology of culture

In this spirited introduction to the contemporary debate on the origin and evolution of culture, Professor Raymond Williams lays the foundation for a serious examination of the role of culture in human life. He investigates the relationship of culture to the social milieu as well as its effect on the consciousness and conduct of people in society. The Sociology of Culture demonstrates that while cultural conceptions sometimes persist over long periods, given artistic forms are specific to a single time and place, and are not reproducible under any other conditions. Williams's convincing analyses cover significant forms, genres, schools, and movements that have generally eluded conventional sociological method.--Back cover.