Full Description
Re-examining C.Wright Mills's legacy as a jumping off point, this original introduction to sociology illuminates global concepts, themes and practices that are fundamental to the discipline. It makes a case for the importance of developing a sociological imagination and provides the steps for how readers can do that. The unique text:
• Offers succinct and wide-ranging coverage of many of the most important themes and concepts taught in first year sociology courses;
• Has a global framework and case material which engages with decoloniality and critiques an overly white, western and developed world view of sociology;
• Is woven through with contemporary examples, from social media to social inequality, big data to the self-help industry;
• Rethinks and re-imagines what a critically committed, politically engaged and publicly relevant sociology should look like in the 21st century.
This is a lively, engaging and accessible overview of sociology for all its students, teachers and people who want to learn more about sociology today. It is a welcome clarion call for sociology's importance in public life.
Contents
Preface: How to read this book?
Making sense of society
The sociological imagination
What is 'the social'?
Seven key moments in Western sociology
Sociologies in a global world
Decolonising sociology
Structure, agency, power and conflict
Difference, stratification and inequalities
The social self
Sociology in the early 21st century
