the scope, history and purpose of sociology ways of understanding 'the social' the state of the world we live in today suffering and social inequalities key tools for researching and thinking about 'the social' the impact of new technologies.

The reader is encouraged to think critically about the structures, meanings, histories and cultures found in the rapidly changing world we live in. With tasks to stimulate the sociological mind and suggestions for further reading both within the text and on an accompanying webpage, this book is essential reading for all those studying sociology, and those with an interest in how the modern world works.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Author notes provided by Syndetics

Ken Plummer is Emeritus Professor of Sociology at the University of Essex, UK and is internationally known for his research on sexualities and narrative. He is author of the best selling Sociology: A Global Introduction(with John Macionis, 5th edition, 2011).