In this book, Anthony Giddens addresses a range of issues concerning current developments in social theory, relating them to the prospects for sociology in the closing decades of the twentieth century. Composed fo closely integrated papers, all written over the past four years, the book inlcudes seven essays not previously published, plus two that have not appeared in English before. In assessing the likely future evoltuion of sociology in particular, and the social sciences in general, the author both draws upon ideas established in his more abstract theoretical writings and examines critically competing traditions of thought. THose looking for an accessible introduction to Giddens's writings will find in this book a set of clear expositions of his basic ideas. By situating these ideas in relation to the critical assessment of the view of others, however, the auhtor providews new sources of insights into the distinctiveness of his own claims. This work will be essential reading for anyone interested in the development of social theory during the present period, and will appeal to a sutdent and professional audience in sociology, anthropology, and political science and philosophy.