This book explores the pioneering work of influential American sociologist Harrison C. White, known for his contributions to social network analysis, the sociology of culture, and economic sociology. It highlights his many insights that have reshaped how we understand the broader foundations of sociology. White’s theories reach well beyond technical methods: they offer a general vision of how social structures form, evolve, and give rise to new social formations. The authors, who have co-authored with White, translated his writings, or deeply engaged with his ideas in their own research, provide a thorough yet accessible discussion of his work, particularly Identity and Control . They show how White’s relational approach illuminates fundamental sociological questions about identity, meaning, and control, and how his concepts help us grasp the dynamic processes through which social formations such as institutions or styles emerge. The book will appeal to advanced undergraduate and graduate students in sociology, the history and epistemology of the social sciences, network analysis, and interdisciplinary studies, as well as to scholars and professionals in fields such as economics, political science, and organizational studies. It will also interest members of academic associations and research institutions, and practitioners concerned with the dynamics of social networks and the emergence of collective forms. “Finally a comprehensive, lucid and deeply appreciative account of Harrison White’s thought and influence, from his early days as a reformed physicist to his final, most refined, complex and fascinating formulations.” (Mark Granovetter, Professor of Sociology, Emeritus, Stanford University, United States) “The work of Harrison White has revolutionized theories and approaches taken to research in and beyond sociology. Drawing on personal knowledge from their own scholarly interactions with him as well as their incisive reflections on the body of his work, the authors of this outstanding book put forward, not only a review of White’s major ideas written with a welcomed clarity, but also a profoundly original and inspired interpretation of their own that advances sociological theorizing.” (Ronald Breiger, Regents Professor and Professor of Sociology, University of Arizona, United States) “This book wraps the unwrappable project(s) of Harrison White into a tidy package, along the way connecting many dots and revealing core aspects of White's work in surprising new light as a beacon for future generations.” (Peter Bearman, Jonathan R. Cole Professor of Sociology, Columbia University, United States) “Structure and Emergence expertly navigates readers through the complexities and brilliance of Harrison White’s ambitious and innovative ideas. It allows readers to see his sociology as a “diamond mine,” full of “beautiful gems” that reward continued exploration. The book is a clear and compelling synthesis that reinforces the enduring promises of White’s works for future advances in the social sciences.” (Sophie Mützel, Professor of Sociology, Media, and Networks, Department of Sociology, University of Lucerne, Switzerland) “A lucid and compelling account of Harrison White’s intellectual journey—bridging formalism and relationalism, and linking structure to meaning with exceptional clarity. The authors succeed in situating White’s theory within a broader intellectual lineage while highlighting its enduring power to renew sociological imagination.” (Charles Kirschbaum, Associate Professor, Insper, Brazil) “Harrison White is one of the most important theorists of social processes. He is also one of the most misunderstood. The near inexpressible richness of White’s thought is unlocked in this important volume. It is a precious window into a deep mine of insight and explanatory power. Essential readings for theorists and anyone interested in the complexity of social existence.” (Emily Erikson, Chair and Professor of Sociology, Yale University, United States) This book explores the pioneering work of influential American sociologist Harrison C. White, known for his contributions to social network analysis, the sociology of culture, and economic sociology. It highlights his many insights that have reshaped how we understand the broader foundations of sociology. White’s theories reach well beyond technical methods: they offer a general vision of how social structures form, evolve, and give rise to new social formations. The authors, who have co-authored with White, translated his writings, or deeply engaged with his ideas in their own research, provide a thorough yet accessible discussion of his work, particularly Identity and Control . They show how White’s relational approach illuminates fundamental sociological questions about identity, meaning, and control, and how his concepts help us grasp the dynamic processes through which social formations such as institutions or styles emerge. The book will appeal to ad