David Oswell uses the idea of children's agency to survey the main issues in childhood studies, including family, schooling, crime, health, consumer culture, work and human rights. He traces the transformation of children and childhood across two centuries and places children's agency in the context of leading theoretical approaches.
The book offers a critical examination of the intersection between cultural studies and social theory, addressing the disconnect that often exists between these fields. David Oswell, drawing from his background in sociology and cultural studies, presents historically informed analyses of cultural and social theories. His insights aim to create a vital connection between cultural studies and broader social debates, enhancing the discourse in both areas.