Book Description

Contradiction forms the basis of all social phenomena. Anyone who has read Georg Simmel will perceive his fascination with the essential complexity that characterizes human interaction. Look for contradiction, he seems to say, and you will find something of vital importance. Ann-Mari Sellerberg applies central themes from Simmel - trust, subordination under principle, adventure, and the position of the poor - and applies them to contemporary phenomena. In so doing, she both illuminates Simmel and reveals how empirical analysis can be extended with insights from his work. Written in nontechnical language, this book will be of interest to scholars and professionals in a broad range of behavioral sciences. The examples that illustrate it will make the book of particular interest to those concerned with health care, marketing, and consumer behavior, as well as those working in the caring professions.