Introduction;
1 What is Sociology?;
2 Asking and Answering Sociological Questions;
3 Theories and Perspectives;
4 Globalization and Social Change;
5 The Environment;
6 Global Inequality;
7 Gender and Sexuality
8 Race, Ethnicity and Migration;
9 Stratification and Social Class;
10 Health, Illness and Disability;
11 Poverty, Social Exclusion and Welfare;
12 Social Interaction and Daily Life;
13 Cities and Urban Life;
14 The Life Course;
15 Families and Intimate Relationships;
16 Education;
17 Work and Employment;
18 Religion;
19 The Media;
20 Politics, Government and Social Movements;
21 Nations, War and Terrorism;
22 Crime and Deviance;
Glossary.

This thoroughly revised and updated ninth edition remains unrivalled in its vibrant, engaging and authoritative introduction to sociology. The authors provide a commanding overview of the latest global developments and new ideas in this fascinating subject. Classic debates are also given careful coverage, with even the most complex ideas explained in a straightforward way.
Written in a fluent, easy-to-follow style, the book manages to be intellectually rigorous but still very accessible. With a strong focus on interactive pedagogy, it aims to engage and excite readers, helping them to see the enduring value of thinking sociologically.
The ninth edition includes:
a solid foundation in the basics of sociology: its purpose, methodology and theories;
up-to-the-minute overviews of key topics in social life, from gender, personal life and poverty, to globalization, the media and politics;
stimulating examples of what sociology has to say about key issues in our contemporary world, such as climate change, growing inequality and rising polarization in societies across the world;
a strong focus on global connections and the ways that digital technologies are radically transforming our lives;
quality pedagogical features, such as ‘Classic Studies’ and ‘Global Society’ boxes, and ‘Thinking Critically’ reflection points, as well as end-of-chapter activities inviting readers to engage with popular culture and original research articles to gather sociological insights.
The ninth edition sets the standard for introductory sociology in a complex world. It is the ideal teaching text for first-year university and college courses, and will help to inspire a new generation of sociologists.