Thinking Sociologically

Widely acclaimed insight on the human condition, updated to view modern issues through a sociological lens

Now in its third edition, Thinking Sociologically continues to offer a stimulating exploration of the underlying assumptions and tacit expectations which structure our view of the world. This best-seller has been translated into 12 languages to bring key sociological concepts to students and general readers around the globe. The authors review recent developments in society and examine the applicability of sociology to everyday life.

The world has changed a great deal since the second edition's publication. Issues of climate change, sustainability, inequality, social justice, inclusion and the role of social media have risen to prominence, and we are collectively challenging our ways of thinking about intimacy, community, consumption, ethics, social identity, and more. This new third edition has been revised to reflect these and other transformations in our lives, helping us to think sociologically about the consequences of these burgeoning issues, how we organize our societies, understand ourselves and lead our lives. This dynamic book:

• Applies sociology to everyday life in the context of current issues

• Contains contributions from major theorists that introduce central sociological concepts with modern relevance

• Features a highly engaging and stimulating style that promotes critical thought and independent study

Written for undergraduates, postgraduates, practicing sociologists and social scientists, this book also holds a broad appeal to a general audience. The third edition of Thinking Sociologically offers a compelling survey of sociological issues, recent changes in society and their influence on our day-to-day lives and identities.

Learn more about Thinking Sociologically in co-author Tim May's recent piece for the British Sociological Association.

Auteur

ZYGMUNT BAUMAN was a world-renowned sociologist known for his ground-breaking work in social theory. His most recent publications included: Does the Richness of the Few Benefit Us All? (2013); Strangers at our Door (2016); Retrotopia (2017); and A Chronicle of Crisis: 20112016 (2017). TIM MAY is Professor of Social Science Methodology at the University of Sheffield, UK. His recent publications include: Reflexivity: The Essential Guide (2017); Cities and the Knowledge Economy: Promise, Politics and Possibilities (2018); and Social Research: Issues, Methods and Process (5th edition, 2019).

Texte du rabat
"The new edition of this now classic text examines the contemporary issues that inform our values, how we see ourselves and each other and organise our societies. I would recommend it not just to sociologists and social scientists, but to anyone concerned to understand how we might conduct our lives in better ways." Professor Bev Skeggs, Director, Atlantic Fellows Programme, London School of Economics and Political Science, UK. "Zygmunt Bauman was one of the great creative and insightful voices of modern sociology. His introduction to Sociological Thinking remains a wonderful and provocative introduction to seeing the world and personal life through a sociological lens. Tim May has done masterful work updating Bauman and adding insights of his own. There is no student of sociology who will not benefit from this book." Craig Calhoun, University Professor of Social Sciences, Arizona State University, USA. Now in its third edition, Thinking Sociologically continues to offer a stimulating exploration of the underlying assumptions and tacit expectations which structure our view of the world. The authors explore key concepts in sociology, review recent developments in society and examine the applicability of sociology to everyday life. The world has changed a great deal since the second edition's publication. Issues of climate change, sustainability, inequality, social justice, inclusion and the role of social media have risen to prominence, and we are collectively challenging our ways of thinking about intimacy, community, consumption, ethics, social identity, and more. This new third edition has been revised to reflect these and other transformations in our lives, helping us to think sociologically about the consequences of these burgeoning issues, how we organize our societies, understand ourselves and lead our lives. Written for undergraduates, postgraduates, practicing sociologists and social scientists, this book also holds a broad appeal to a general audience. The third edition of Thinking Sociologically offers a compelling survey of sociological issues, recent changes in society and their influence on our day-to-day lives and identities.

Contenu
Preface to the Second Edition ix

Preface to the Third Edition xi

Acknowledgments xiii

Introduction: Crafting Sociological Lenses 1

Part I Action and Understanding in Everyday Life 13

1 Understanding Ourselves with and through Others 15

2 Sustaining Our Lives 27

3 Social Bonds: Speaking of You and We 41

Part II Choices, Contexts, and Challenges 55

4 Values, Power, and Choice 57

5 Gifts, Exchange, and Intimacy 77

6 Body, Sexuality, and Health 91

7 Space, Time, and Social Dynamics 105

8 Culture, Nature, and Territory 123

9 Consumption, Technology, and Lifestyle 143

Part III Retrospect and Prospect 159

10 Sociological Lenses: Retrospect and Prospect 161

Questions for Reflection and Further Reading 177

Index 187