This book investigates the fundamental philosophical basis of sociology by defining the nature of social reality through the lens of structure and agency. Anthony King, a scholar in the field of sociology, examines how social theory has evolved over the last thirty years to become a critical subdiscipline. He argues that social reality is not merely an abstract concept but is composed of the interplay between objective institutions and individual agency, emphasizing that all social reality is rooted in human social relations.

Experts recognize this work as a significant contribution to the understanding of sociological foundations. Readers frequently note the academic density of the prose, which is intended for students and scholars of social theory.