Lewis A. Coser

"The positive values of conflict for all societies come to light in this study. The author reveals how conflicts fulfill social functions such as maintenance of group boundaries and the prevention of the withdrawl of members from a group. Critical of the view that conflict is dysfunctional, he demonstrates its inadequacies. In a series of basic propositions distilled from the theories of George Simmel, Mr. Coser clarifies the functions of social conflict. These propsitions are extended and related to such theories as those of psychoanalysis and empirical research." --From back cover.

In a prolific life of singular literary achievement, Larry McMurtry has succeeded in a variety of genres: in coming-of-age novels like The Last Picture Show; in collections of essays like In a Narrow Grave; and in the reinvention of the Western on a grand scale in his Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, Lonesome Dove. Now, in Books: A Memoir, McMurtry writes about his endless passion for books: as a boy growing up in a largely "bookless" world; as a young man devouring the vastness of literature with astonishing energy; as a fledgling writer and family man; and above all, as one of America's most prominent bookmen. He takes us on his journey to becoming an astute, adventurous book scout and collector who would eventually open stores of rare and collectible editions in Georgetown, Houston, and finally, in his previously "bookless" hometown of Archer City, Texas--From publisher description.