Sociology is the study of human social life and the constantly changing way society functions. Student Handbook to Sociology is a brand-new, seven-volume set designed to meet the needs of high school and college students as well as members of the general public seeking clear explanations on all aspects of sociology. Within these comprehensive volumes, readers can explore such topics as groups and organisations, aging, race and ethnicity, family, religion, education, collective behaviour, sexuality, social class, and much more. Written in an engaging style and with helpful sidebars and case studies, this full-colour set will be a one-stop source for anyone interested in learning more about this fascinating field. An index, bibliography, glossary, and sidebars round out the invaluable features.

How did the study of sociology develop? History and Theory focuses on the development of sociological theorists' ideas about society and social research over time. Ideas of major classical theorists such as Auguste Comte, Karl Marx, and Max Weber are explored, as well as a range of schools of thought in sociology, including structural functionalism, conflict theory, symbolic interactionism, phenomenology, ethnomethodology, critical theory, and postmodernism and emancipatory theories. This brand-new, full-color volume concludes with a discussion of the relationship between sociological theory and public policy.

How do sociologists conduct research? Research Methods explores many of the quantitative and qualitative methods that sociologists use to learn about society. This new, full-color volume also explores ethical issues related to research and provides detailed information on how to conduct research. Illustrated with examples of actual research studies conducted by professional sociologists and students, this comprehensive resource makes research methods accessible.

For centuries, humans have wondered what it means to be human. Sociologists suggest that the answer lies in understanding how we become human. This process, known as socialization, is the focus of this brand-new, full-color resource. The comprehensive guide examines how our identities are shaped by the cultures in which we live and how we, in return, play a role in shaping our social worlds. Special emphasis is given to gender, race, social class, and adult socialization processes and outcomes.

Despite the democratic and egalitarian ideals held by many in society, the unequal treatment of certain groups is a fact of social life. Stratification and Inequality explores the many ways in which inequality is structured within our society, along with the social mechanisms that support systems of inequality. Included in this discussion is stratification on the basis of race, ethnicity, social class, gender, age, species, and nationality. This new, full-color resource focuses on the consequences of stratification for individuals' lives and society as a whole.

The establishment, maintenance, and enforcement of the rules of social behavior are of fundamental concern for sociologists. Deviance and Crime is a brand-new, full-color guide that examines the definition and violation of various types of codes of conduct, including laws, moral codes, and cultural norms of etiquette. This comprehensive resource offers a balanced approach to the field by addressing crime and deviance together and by providing both theoretical insights and concrete information about specific forms of criminality and deviancy.

Social Structure examines the social order undergirding our advanced industrial society by exploring the recent evolution of major social institutions, including the economy, politics and government, family, religion, education, and the mass media. This new, full-color resource helps readers understand how these institutions have been shaped by the great transformation to modern society characterized by the enormous growth and prevalence of rational, complex, and bureaucratic organizations.

The study of social change has long been one of the central interests in sociology. Social Change is a brand-new, full-color resource that considers the various ways in which society and social life change over time, including the development of modernity, urbanization, environmental change, demographic change, and the role of new technologies. Special attention is given to the role of collective action, including revolutions and social movements, in creating social change. This work will help readers understand how social change happens, the consequences of social change, and the role that individuals play in promoting and responding to change.