An introduction to sociology

An Introduction to Sociology is your essential guide to understanding the social forces that shape our lives and the world around us.This innovative textbook introduces you to the key theories, themes, and concepts in the discipline of sociology and helps you to develop as a sociologist by providing comprehensive coverage of all the main areas of study. Presenting you with the history, current debates and recent research developments for each topic, this book covers everything from classical sociologies and traditional subjects such as class, families, and religion, through to more progressive areas like digital society, social media, migration, and the interconnectedness of modern global society. The book's extensive coverage means it can be used throughout your studies, from first year to final year.Key features:- Each chapter is written by an internationally renowned expert who uses specialist insight and the latest research to provide a reliable and up-to-date overview.- Includes a selection of unique learning features such as “Hear from the Expert” boxes and “Key Cases” from around the world, as well as reflective activities and revision questions that will enhance your knowledge.- Features a section titled “What is sociology useful for?” which includes chapters on the public value of sociology and the role of sociology in contemporary society.The book is supported by a wide-ranging collection of online teaching and learning resources including exclusive video content from SAGE Video, links to SAGE Journal Articles, sample essay questions, and a selection of multiple-choice questions.This definitive text is perfect for first-year sociology undergraduates and anyone studying sociology at university or college level.

Part One Thinking Sociologically; Introduction to Part One; Chapter 1 Approaching Sociology; Chapter 2 What is Sociological about the Digital Society?; Chapter 3 What is Sociological about the Environment?; Chapter 4 What is Sociological about Crime?; Chapter 5 What is Society?; Chapter 6 Sociology of an Interconnected World; Part Two Theories and Methods; Introduction to Part Two; Chapter 7 Classical Sociologies; Chapter 8 Contemporary Social Theory; Chapter 9 Beyond the Qualitative/Quantitative Divide; Chapter 10 Visual and Digital Methods of Research; Part Three Inequalities and Identities; Introduction to Part Three; Chapter 11 Class; Chapter 12 Gender ; Chapter 13 Race; Chapter 14 Age; Part Four Connecting the Personal and the Social; Introduction to Part Four; Chapter 15 Families and Households; Chapter 16 Intimacies, and Relationships; Chapter 17 Work; Chapter 18 Health; Chapter 19 Education; Chapter 20 Religion; Part Five Sociological Frontiers; Introduction to Part Five; Chapter 21 Cultures and Consumption; Chapter 22 War and Violence; Chapter 23 Science and Technology; Chapter 24 Migrations; Chapter 25 Social Movements; Part Six What is Sociology Useful For?; Introduction to Part Six; Chapter 26 Sociology as a Science?; Chapter 27 Public Sociology; Chapter 28 Using Sociology;