Social disorganization

This book is intended for use as a text in college courses dealing with the subject of social disorganization. The pri mary concern of this volume is with those basic processes that are to some extent the fundamental causes of many of the troubles studied under the terms "social problems" and "social pathology." It assumes that a basic understanding of these sociological processes is of value in the explanation and perhaps ultimate solution of such problems.

After an examination of the concepts of social organiza tion, social disorganization, and personal disorganization, this book discusses specific areas of disorganization, and con cludes with an account of social reorganization and prospects for social stability. The materials are drawn from the whole field of sociology, from several related disciplines, and from various nonacademic sources.

Since the first edition a considerable amount of new material on the subject of social disorganization has become available. This material, especially new case illustrations, has been integrated into the discussion throughout the text. The general organization of the previous edition has been retained; recent knowledge has only strengthened its value. Extensive revisions have been made in the first three chapters, however, for the purpose of clarifying the basic concepts upon which the entire volume rests.