Constructing Social Theory discusses the nature of social theory and theoretical orientations. Organized by forty-three theoretical orientations in seven domains—exchange, power, adaptation/reinforcement, social bond, altruism, functionalism, and identity—the text includes a tutorial on how to identify an appropriate theoretical orientation and create a theory given a particular research question. Bell separates the theoretical orientation of causal logic from theory itself, illuminating the mechanisms of scientific revolutions where new theoretical orientations are created, and the procedures of normal science, in which theories are developed using the logic of existing theoretical orientations.

"This book provides a near groundbreaking approach to conceptualizing and constructing social theory. While Bell builds upon what others have contributed in this area, he also critiques their work and proposes alternatives. He shows an excellent understanding of major issues in the philosophy of science as they relate to social theory construction. The book is very well referenced and so will be especially valuable to those who want to pursue the subject futher." - Teaching Sociology, October 2009

"This book provides a near groundbreaking approach to conceptualizing and constructing social theory. While Bell builds upon what others have contributed in this area, he also critiques their work and proposes alternatives. He shows an excellent understanding of major issues in the philosophy of science as they relate to social theory construction. The book is very well referenced and so will be especially valuable to those who want to pursue the subject further." - Teaching Sociology, October 2009