Description
Book SynopsisRe-examining C.Wright Mills’s legacy as a jumping off point, this original introduction to sociology illuminates global concepts, themes and practices that are fundamental to the discipline. It makes a case for the importance of developing a sociological imagination and provides the steps for how readers can do that. The unique text: • Offers succinct and wide-ranging coverage of many of the most important themes and concepts taught in first year sociology courses; • Has a global framework and case material which engages with decoloniality and critiques an overly white, western and developed world view of sociology; • Is woven through with contemporary examples, from social media to social inequality, big data to the self-help industry; • Rethinks and re-imagines what a critically committed, politically engaged and publicly relevant sociology should look like in the 21st century. This is a lively, engaging and accessible overview of sociology for all its students, teachers and people who want to learn more about sociology today. It is a welcome clarion call for sociology’s importance in public life.
Trade Review"This is an innovative, thoroughly researched and well-written 21st Century introductory sociology text. Your students will love it!" Rhoda Reddock, The University of the West Indies
"This is a comprehensive and critically engaged review of the discipline written by two passionate authors wishing to remind us all of the beauty of questioning and engaging with the ultimate purpose of sociological debates: to reshape, re-establish and ultimately reignite the reveal of the sociological imagination!" Athanasia Chalari, University of Northampton
"The authors critically reflect on sociology's place in the world and persuasively argue that the 'sociological imagination' is more relevant than ever in this comprehensive account." Jenny van Hooff, Manchester Metropolitan University
"Kerrigan and Nehring help us critically re-imagine society in this provoking and engaging publication which spans Western, global, and decolonising approaches." Adam Baird, Coventry University
Table of ContentsPreface: How to read this book? Making sense of society The sociological imagination What is 'the social'? Seven key moments in Western sociology Sociologies in a global world Decolonising sociology Structure, agency, power and conflict Difference, stratification and inequalities The social self Sociology in the early 21st century
