Sociology

For undergraduate-level courses in Introduction to Sociology that use a comprehensive text.The most widely adopted sociology multi-media learning package. Authoritative, comprehensive, and stimulating, this carefully coordinated combination textbook, CD-ROM, and Website offers a fresh and contemporary perspective with a focus on the major methods, theories, and findings of the field. Its emphasis on cultivating a global perspective, its multicultural view, its focus on critical thinking, and its abundance of boxed features and full program of colorful maps bring sociology to life and appeal to students across all academic backgrounds. Features and Benefits New - A new chapter on Sexuality (Ch. 9) highlights the socially-constructed character of human sexuality. Begins by explaining the biological and cultural foundations of sexuality, surveys changing sexual attitudes in the United States, explores the myths and realities surrounding sexual orientation, and then explores sexual controversies including teen pregnancy, pornography, prostitution, and sexual violence.New - A greater emphasis on applications - puts greater emphasis on applying the sociological perspective and research to our everyday lives and pressing social issues, and features new Applied Sociology theme boxes (21 in all) throughout, and chapter-end Applications and Exercises sections that suggest ways students can apply lessons to their campus and community. Helps students apply the power of sociology to their present lives and future careers.New - A new combined chapter - Ch. 22, Population, Urbanization, and Environment, combines the old chapter 'Environment and Society' with the discussion of population and urbanization, and provides an integrated discussion of three closely related issues.New - 16 of 24 new engaging and instructive chapter-opening vignettes. Sparks student interest as they introduce important themes.New - Major updating - Ch.2 ('Sociological Investigation' ), Ch.5 ('Socialization'), and Ch.7 ('Groups and Organizations') have been extensively revised and reorganized to reflect recent changes in these important areas of study.New - 'Sites to See' Website listings - Concludes each chapter with a 'Sites to See' section that lists four to six worthwhile Websites. Includes explanatory annotations. Introduces students to a wide range of organizations involved in relevant research or social action.New - New research and statistical data - Includes more than 250 new research citations including data from the Internet as well as conventional bound publications, various government agencies, and private organizations. Familiarizes students with current events that elevate their interest.New - Applications and Exercises at the end of each chapter. Most exercises involve familiar settings on and around the campus. These exercises help students apply sociological concepts and research findings to their own lives. Provides students with a variety of ways to test and extend their learning.A theoretically clear and balanced approach - Introduces the discipline's major theoretical approaches in Ch. 1, and systematically revisits them in the chapters that follow. Provides students with a general overview at the very beginning, enabling them to more easily compare and contrast among theories as they work through the text.A unique chapter on important social theorists - Ch. 4. Presents, in distinct sections, the ideas of Weber, Marx, and Durkheim. Provides students with an easy-to-understand introduction to important social theorists before they encounter their work in later chapters, but after they have been introduced to the discipline.Abundant study/review aids - Highlighted key concepts, a numbered Summary and four Critical-Thinking Questions for each chapter; and a complete time line on the inside front cover. Provides students with convenient in-text tools for study and review.