Written by leading experts in the field, Social Theories of Risk and Uncertainty is an introduction to mainstream theorizing on risk and uncertainty in sociology. The book provides an overview of the historical developments and conceptual aspects of risk, identifies why theorizing on risk is necessary, and highlights specific sociological contributions to this field of research. Individual chapters explore key topics including: risk society and reflexive modernization, culture and risk, governmentality and risk, systems theory and risk, and edgework and voluntary risk taking.

This volume is an excellent resource that offers a clear understanding of risk from a social science perspective and establishes the basis for further theorizing and future research. Ultimately it offers a comprehensive look at the promises, pitfalls, and perspectives of risk theorizing.

Jens O. Zinn is a Senior Research Fellow at the School of Social Policy, Sociology and Social Research at the University of Kent, Canterbury. He is currently researching the development of risk theorizing as part of the ESRC priority network Social Contexts and Responses to Risk (SCARR). He has founded research networks on the Sociology of Risk and Uncertainty within the International Sociological Association (ISA) and the European Sociological Association (ESA).