Reintroducing Robert K. Merton

Charles Crothers is Emeritus Professor of Sociology at Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand. He has previously worked at the Town & Country Planning Division of the Ministry of Works, Wellington, Victoria University of Wellington, the University of Auckland, the University of Natal and as Senior Research Associate at the University of Johannesburg. He is the author of Sociologies of New Zealand, Social Structure and Robert K. Merton and was previously editor of NZ Population Review, Sociology in Transition, New Zealand Sociology and Kotuitui: New Zealand Journal of Social Sciences Online.

• 1. The Case for Reintroducing Merton 2. '1930s: The Harvard Years' (Jugendschriften) 3. Early Years at Columbia 4. Middle Years at Columbia 5. Later Years 6. Reprise: Merton as Discipline-builder, Theorist, Substantive Sociologist and Moralist 7. Merton the Man, His Operational Code and Influences

‘Charles Crothers’ new book is by far the best introduction to the work and life of Robert K. Merton. Merton’s role in modern sociology has been of enormous importance, not only for US sociology but also internationally. Crothers’ book is meticulously researched and written in an engaging manner. It should be on every social scientist’s bookshelf.’ - Richard Swedberg, Cornell University, USA'Crothers offers what is perhaps the most compelling reason why Merton needs reintroduction: because his legacy, at once known and unknown, has been the victim of its own success … this book proves its value in providing us with another opportunity to stand on the shoulders of an intellectual giant.' - A. Javier Trevino, Social Forces