The focus of this book is on three nineteenth century theorists, Henri Saint Simon, August Comte and Herbert Spencer. It builds a clear understanding of important concepts of this era, and provides a social and historical context to the formative ideas of the theorists.

The aim of this text is to offer a broad based and sound academic guide to those studying sociology at the pre-university stage and / or during their university studies. It is also intended to assist the inquisitive mature reader to adopt a reflective and insightful outlook on society through the lens of sociological theories and concepts.