Christopher Thorpe is a lecturer in sociology at the University of Exeter. His areas of expertise include classical and modern social theory, cultural sociology and social justice. Previously he was at the Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, where he taught sociology and social theory to social work students. Together with David Inglis, he is author of An Invitation to Social Theory (2012).
This wonderfully clearly written book shows professiomal and trainee social workers how they can greatly improve their practice by becoming practical sociologists. It also demonstrates to sociologists how their ideas can inspire concrete activities that are socially beneficial and positively transformative - David Inglis, University of Helsinki A rich meditation on the intersection between social theory and social work. Christopher Thorpe's excellent contribution brings into focus the importance of ideas and concepts for social work. Wonderful to see the inclusion of Norbert Elias who reflects on the emergence of new forms of `civilized' life mirrored by much of social work's front-line engineering. - Stephen A. Webb, Glasgow Caledonian University.