This book gives an overview of Thought from Comte to post-modernism and post-structuralism.
Marx, Weber, Durkheim and Parsons are given comprehensive coverage. Marx is given a prominent place in any book on Sociological Thought. This book is no exception.
But a unique feature of this book is that it highlights Immanuel Kant's role in the evolution of Thought. It brings forth major issues in sociology of knowledge.
Introducing Nietzsche in a formal and detailed way is another refreshing feature of this book. In an unusual twist, Ayn Rand is covered to bring forth the power of Nietzsche's arguments.
Thus the real challengers to Marx are brought on the stage – dismissing Weber as unfit to take on Marx.
Freud is covered to highlight the psychological aspects of society. In a nutshell, the book takes Thought to its philosophical roots.
Why Krishnamurti here? The simplest answer: that is the only way of bringing Buddha to the discussion, to get the best face to face. Buddha does stand the tallest, but Kant is a very serious challenger; Nietzsche's irreverence helps clarify Buddha; Marx is benefited; Freud pleased.
Where is the author? Apart from coordinating the discussion, I have put forward my own ideas. Under evaluation, I have given my judgment of the issues under consideration. Non-aggression: an instinct Nietzsche didn't see is my contribution. Positing a new instinct resolves many contradictions appearing at the surface level. This helps question the dichotomy between selfishness and selflessness.
