Social life is in a constant process of change, and sociology cannot afford to stand still. Sociology today is theoretically diverse, covers a huge range of subjects and draws on a broad array of research methods. Central to this endeavour is the use of core concepts and ideas which allow sociologists to make sense of societies, though our understanding of these concepts is constantly evolving and changing. This clear and jargon–free book introduces a careful selection of essential concepts that have helped to shape sociology, and others that continue to do so. Going beyond brief, dictionary–style definitions, Anthony Giddens and Philip W. Sutton provide an extended discussion of each concept which sets it into historical and theoretical context, explores its main meanings in use, introduces some relevant criticisms, and points readers to its ongoing development in contemporary research and theorizing. Organized in ten thematic sections, the book offers a portrait of sociology through its essential concepts ranging from capitalism, identity and deviance to citizenship, the environment and intersectionality. It will be essential reading for all those new to sociology, as well as those seeking a reliable route map for a rapidly changing world. INDICE: Introduction THEME 1: THINKING SOCIOLOGICALLY Discourse Globalization Modernity Postmodernity Rationalization Society Structure / Agency THEME 2: DOING SOCIOLOGY Ideal Type Qualitative / Quantitative Methods Realism Reflexivity Science Social construction THEME 3: ENVIRONMENT AND URBANISM Alienation Environment Industrialization Migration Risk Sustainable Development Urbanism THEME 4: STRUCTURES OF SOCIETY Bureaucracy Capitalism Consumerism Division of Labour Education Organization Religion THEME 5: UNEQUAL LIFE CHANCES Class and inequality Gender Intersectionality Patriarchy Poverty ‘Race’ and Ethnicity Social mobility Status THEME 6: RELATIONSHIPS AND THE LIFECOURSE Community Family Life Course Network Sexuality Socialization THEME 7: INTERACTION AND COMMUNICATION Culture Identity Ideology Interaction Mass Media Public Sphere THEME 8: HEALTH, ILLNESS AND THE BODY Biomedicine Medicalization Sick Role Social Model of Disability Social Self Stigma THEME 9: CRIME AND SOCIAL CONTROL Anomie Deviance Labelling Moral Panic Restorative Justice Social Control Subculture THEME 10: POLITICAL SOCIOLOGY Authority Citizenship Conflict Civil Society Democracy Nation State Power Social Movement References
- ISBN: 978-0-7456-4985-6
- Editorial: Polity Press
- Encuadernacion: Cartoné
- Páginas: 229
- Fecha Publicación: 14/02/2014
- Nº Volúmenes: 1
- Idioma: Inglés
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