Family Connections
An Introduction to Family Studies
The changing nature of the family is a topic of intense public
concern. It also has been the focus of research in sociology and
related disciplines for many years.
Family Connections is a major new introduction to the
study of the family, written by one of the leading scholars in the
field. Morgan shows that the study of the family is not a
peripheral concern of sociology but rather lies at the heart of
sociological theory and research.
Family Connections takes the reader through the
established debates, such as the relation between family life and
the world of work and employment, the impact of class and
stratification on the family, and the relevance of gender. Morgan
then examines some newer areas of social inquiry, including the
sociology of the body, time and space, food, and the home. The
relevance of the family to more general topics of sociological
theory such as postmodernity, citizenship, consumption and risk are
all discussed.The emphasis throughout is on family relationships as
processes which are fluid, complex and open to change.
This timely, wide-ranging and innovative book will be of great
interest to students and scholars in family studies, sociology, and
gender and women's studies.
1. Work, Employment and the Household.
2. Family and Stratification.
3. Gender.
4. Care.
5. The Body.
6. Time and Space.
7. Food.
8. Home.
Conclusion.
References.
Index.
achieved in Britain over the past twenty years could well start
with this book. David Morgan skilfully weaves an original tapestry
of British life based on such themes as food, home and the body, as
well as the more traditional themes of class and work. He does this
from a distinctive family perspective but this is more than simply
another book about the family: it is an unusual way of approaching
British Society as a whole.' Ray Pahl, University of Kent,
Canterbury
'Morgan's comprehensive, judicious account of developments in
the sociology of the family should be on every lecturer's and
student's bookshelf.' Chris Harris, University College of
Swansea
'David Morgan ... is one of leading scholars in the field of the
sociology of the family. Family Connections is well
structured and its themes are easy to follow. Morgan's knowledge of
this field is impressive, and the book offers an excellent overview
of how family matters are woven into a multitude of areas in social
life. The book is highly informative and reflects the state of the
art in today's family sociology.' Acta Sociologica
'Well-researched text ... Morgan writes well; the density of the
material presented has been made very readable. For someone wanting
a look at the latest in the social analysis of how families are
defined at the political level, the social function of the family
and the individuals within them it offers a variety of informed
ideas with references to the relevant literature.' Journal of
Paediatrics of Health Care