Author Description

From the Back CoverA realistic, applied paperback text that is theoretically balanced, offers global perspectives, shows how sociology is applied to real problems, and contains an expanded built-in study guide.This introduction to sociology uses the three major theoretical perspectives— functionalist, conflict, and interactionist—as tools for examining the social world. The author shows how society works and how human behavior is shaped by cultural, structural, and institutional forces, using illuminating examples. As in previous editions, the Sixth Edition also integrates two other themes that reflect some contemporary trends in sociology: the reemergence of interest in how sociological knowledge can be applied to social problems or to helping people improve their lives, and the recognition that societies and cultures are becoming increasingly diverse and interdependent.Product DescriptionSociology: Concepts and Applications in a Diverse World is a concise introduction to sociology that is theoretically balanced, offers global perspectives, and shows how sociology is applied to real problems. The author shows how society works and how human behavior is shaped by cultural, structural, and institutional forces, using illuminating examples. Special features throughout the book will help readers apply the theory to their own lives, and to debunk commonly held misconceptions about society and social life.