Norbert Elias and modern social theory

"This evaluation of Elias's work is the first to be written by someone from outside his immediate circle. In this book Dennis Smith offers a survey of Elias's life and writings, and traces the growth of his reputation." "Elias has found here the sympathetic, detached and scrupulously critical commentator that his work deserves. Smith shows why Elias is important for sociology, but he is also clear sighted about the limitations of Elias's approach. The book will be required reading for anyone interested in social theory today."--Jacket.