William Graham Sumner

"William Graham Sumner" by Harris E. Starr offers a definitive and comprehensive look at the life, career, and intellectual contributions of one of America's most influential social scientists. As a professor at Yale University, Sumner was a pioneer in the fields of sociology and economics, known for his staunch defense of classical liberalism and his development of groundbreaking social concepts such as folkways and ethnocentrism.

This biography explores Sumner's journey from his early days as an Episcopal minister to his transformation into a secular academic powerhouse. Starr meticulously details Sumner's rigorous approach to social science and his unwavering belief in individual liberty and the free market. The work examines his major literary contributions, including the landmark study "Folkways," and his famous essays like "The Forgotten Man," which challenged the political and social orthodoxy of the Gilded Age.

Providing essential context for understanding the development of American social thought, Starr's narrative highlights Sumner's lasting impact on the academic world and his role in shaping the modern study of society. For scholars of American history, sociology, and political theory, this work remains a vital resource for understanding the man who helped bridge the gap between traditional moral philosophy and modern social science.

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