Author Description

This is the third edition of one of the first of the core texts in introductory sociology,and it remains a standard. In 12 comprehensive chapters,Vander Zanden zeroes in on the essentials with his coverage of the major concepts,theories,institutions,and debates. His issues-oriented approach encourages critical thinking and analysis,and his "Doing Sociology" boxes help students apply what they've learned. This economical new edition has been updated with the latest research and examples from recent current events,including the changes in Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union. This text has been lauded by users for its style and clarity of writing,as well as for its pedagogical features and design. A key reason for its success is that students like it-it's not dry and technical,and it doesn't talk down to them.