"Accessible and expert, The Civil Sphere introduces an essential perspective on modern democratic life. Kivisto and Sciortino explain Civil Sphere Theory's elements, backgruond, competitors, criqitues, and developments. Their important contribution helps everyone who wants to understand the fraught dynamics of democracy."Lyn Spillman, University of Notre Dame"Jeffrey C. Alexander, one of the most important social theorists of our time, has profoundly recast our understanding of civil society, democracy, and solidarity. Now his ambitious and groundbreaking theory of the civil sphere has the lucid, comprehensive introduction it deserves. Kivisto and Sciortino's masterful guide illuminates Alexander's work in relation to the history of ideas, contemporary debates, and ongoing political struggles."Chad Alan Goldberg, University of Wisconsin-Madison