Talcott Parsons - Theory not only formulates what we know but also

Theory not only formulates what we know but also tells us what we want to know, that is, the questions to which an answer is needed.

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Citations

Parsons, Talcott. The Structure of Social Action. McGraw-Hill, 1937, p. 9.

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About the Author

Talcott Parsons

Born: December 13, 1902
Died: May 8, 1979
Nationality: American
Profession: Sociologist

Biography

Talcott Parsons was an American sociologist of the classical tradition, best known for his social action theory and structural functionalism. Parsons is considered one of the most influential figures in sociology in the 20th century. After earning a PhD in economics, he served on the faculty at Harvard University from 1927 to 1929. In 1930, he was among the first professors in its new sociology department. Later, he was instrumental in the establishment of the Department of Social Relations at Harvard.

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