New Directions in the Sociology and History of Technology.

George Ritzer, known as the writer of voluminous textbooks in sociological theory, has recently produced two smaller, engaging books, written for the general public. Both books forcefully demonstrate the relevance of classical sociological theory to contemporary society and social criticism. They are excellent appetizers as far as sociology is concerned. As such they can be recommended for introductory courses in sociology. The McDonaldization of Society demonstrates the relevance of Max Weber’s theory of rationalization to modern societies. In Expressing America Ritzer relies on several perspectives. Besides Max Weber he also brings in C. Wright Mills, Karl Marx but most of all Georg Simmel. Several similarities between the books make it useful to presen