Key Contemporary Social Theorists is a comprehensive introduction to the most significant figures in social, cultural, political and philosophical thought in the twentieth century. Over forty leading theorists from around the world are profiled in short essays that cover the thinkers' lives, ideas, and major criticisms.

The contributors, themselves distinguished authors and leading academic scholars, cover individuals who have developed key schools of though in social theory: Benjamin, Elias, Goffman, Lacan, Said, Jameson, Heidegger, Giddens, Bauman, Williams, and many others. Readers will find this to be an authoritative guide and invaluable reference for understanding the roots and trends of development in modern social thought.