Understanding the relevance of sociology to our everyday lives is critical today as never before. This book demonstrates that relevance, encouraging readers to consider their perspectives -- and those of others -- in daily life and in dealing with the broader issues. A compelling writing style, unique chapter organization, and incorporation of leading technology work together to convey the excitement of this dynamic field.Examines what has changed over the past, primarily in the U.S., and discusses what those changes say about us as a society. Features Media and Technology boxes that raise issues of how media and advanced technology affect what we do, and how we make judgments and decisions based on what we see on TV. Includes Internet Exercises that reference issues or topics covered, sending readers to Web sites where they can explore opposing views of the same topic. Devotes a full chapter to crime, exploring it in depth as an outcome of deviance and as an institution.