Wallerstein's Essentials

Author: Immanuel Wallerstein
Publisher:
Publication Date: 2003-10-01
Features: Immanuel Wallerstein, the founder of world-systems analysis, is one of the most original social scientists of our time. The Essential Wallerstein collects his entire academic achievements for the first time. This panoramic collection of works is the only one that provides an overview of this academic thinker's writings and shows the development of his thought: from his pioneering research on contemporary African politics and social change, to his analysis of the modern world-system, to his current understanding of the new intellectual structures arising from the capitalist world economy crisis. The Essential Wallerstein serves as an ideal guide to the work of this "prolific, provocative, and grand theorist" (The rankings) who has encouraged sharp thinking about the social sciences on a global scale. "Wallerstein is both a respected world historian and an insightful prophet. This combination is particularly remarkable in an era of fragmented knowledge and highly specialized academia. It makes him a compelling figure, his eloquent speeches, radical ideas, and extraordinary erudition all challenging conventional professional discourse." "Wallerstein's thought provides a new framework for European historiography, an intriguing new interpretation, a new classification, in fact, a revolutionary framework for accepted knowledge and prevailing ideas." "Wallerstein possesses the skill of a surgeon: he looks at the big picture while paying attention to the details, handling them with both precision and keen insight." "Wallerstein's broad and bold vision is both refreshing and stimulating."