This insightful book explores the spread of network imagery in three areas of sociology - social capital, social support, and China - using as its protagonist a man active in all three: Nan Lin.

Social Capital, Social Support and Stratification first discusses theories of stratification and achievement, with advantage termed social capital, a complement to the field's earlier focus on education as human capital. Network imagery in theories of social support is also investigated, expanding clinical psychology into social psychology. Finally the progression of network imagery in the renovation of Chinese sociology from disdained ideology to admired social science is considered.

A unique combination of Nan Lin's core contributions to the field presented alongside new and original analyses, this innovative book will be a key resource for sociology courses on China as well as for scholars interested in social capital, social support or stratification worldwide. The book will also be of interest to those individuals interested in academic entrepreneurs such as Nan Lin.