This book provides an introduction to core concepts in sociology. Accessibly written chapters illustrate the history and practice of sociological work. Recent areas of social science inquiry, e.g., globalization and the Internet are also covered. There are profiles of more than 70 notable sociologists. In addition, there is information on training and working as a sociologist. This book provides an introduction to core conepts in sociology. Written in a readable, accessible style, it uses a mix of both classic studies and current references to illustrate sociological concepts and to underscore their continuing relevance. It examines what sociology is, why sociology is important, and why we study it. It demonstrates how various social forces impact our lives and form our social experiences explaining that, when we understand these forces, we can better make sense of the world around us, better understand ourselves, and better participate in shaping the future for ourselves and for others. The book extends traditional applications of these core concepts by focusing on their application to globalization and the Internet. A series of biographical profiles highlight the careers of more than 70 notable sociologists as well as others, who have contributed to the field. There is a chapter devoted to careers in sociology. Each chapter has a list of additional print and nonprint resources.

From exotic spa treatments to euthanasia, this book examines the background and social context of medical tourism-the practice of traveling for health care. This work also documents how this industry is reshaping the face of medicine worldwide for individuals, local communities, and national health care systems. Medical Tourism: A Reference Handbook provides an accessible overview of the state of medical tourism, written from a balanced, unbiased perspective. The authors provide relevant social context for this controversial topic, discussing the state of extremely limited research data on medical tourism; the ethical issues involved, such as traveling to have a black-market organ transplanted; and the significant impact of medical tourism on health care systems-that of the United States, and those of the destination countries. The book highlights many contemporary problems, controversies, and implications of medical tourism both for individuals and health care systems, and presents thought-provoking potential solutions. The topic of medical tourism is also addressed against the backdrop of current healthcare reforms in the United States. Readers can reference a wealth of additional material on medical tourism, ranging from original documents to extensive directories of selected organizations and resources. A timeline of important historical and contemporary events in history of medical tourism An extensive bibliography to assist readers toward additional resources for further research

The history, symptoms, prevention, and current issues surrounding HIV and AIDS are discussed, along with a focus on special populations struggling with the disease. Once thought to be a disease of homosexuals and drug abusers, AIDS has now impacted people across cultures, genders, and sexual orientations. Despite activism, new research, and treatments, many people are still dying from this disease. HIV/AIDS offers a comprehensive, one-volume resource that traces the history of the disease, and discusses prevention, along with current research and treatment. It examines issues such as care giving, health care settings, human rights, pregnancy, and insurance. The incidence and prognosis for the disease among special populations, as well as their needs and struggles, are covered in detail. These groups include: drug and alcohol abusers, the gay and lesbian community, minority communities, pediatric patients, prisoners, senior citizens, and women. With education the key to both prevention and care of those infected, this volume is an invaluable resource for students and general readers.