Description
Book SynopsisThe Key to (Almost) Everything is an engaging, contemporary and concise approach to sociology written for adults, students and just about anybody who could profit from knowing about the discipline of sociology. It is expertly written by an author drawing on 40 years of teaching on the fundamental social structures and processes characteristic of human societies. Each of the book’s chapters is modeled on the courses found in the sociology curriculum. These chapters are not course or lecture notes, rather they are engaging lessons on topics such as political sociology, urban sociology, religion in sociology, crime and guns, poverty, the American family, public opinion, wealth and power.
Trade ReviewThis book’s originality lies in its manner of presentation and witty, engaging style that manages to be entertaining while at the same time providing a remarkably coherent overview of the field of sociology based on Wright's 40 years of teaching, research, and reading on the fundamental structures and processes that prevail in human societies. -- Douglas S. Massey, Princeton University
James Wright is one of the most brilliant people I’ve ever met, and if decision-makers listened to what he has to say, we would undoubtedly live in a better world. Accordingly, everyone should read The Key to (Almost) Everything. -- Richard Whatmore, University of St. Andrews
The overall idea—to provide a comprehensive yet accessible and entertaining introduction to sociology for adults—is brilliant. The writing style of the authors matches this goal; it is precise and substantively informative, yet easy to follow and draws in the reader. -- Barbara Prainsack, University of Vienna
Table of ContentsPreface 1. Introduction to Sociology 2. Theory and Perspectives 3. Research Methods and Statistics 4. Sociology of Contemporary American Society 5. Political Sociology 6. Public Opinion and Attitude Change 7. Wealth, Power and Inequality 8. The Working Class 9. American Social Problems: Crime, Poverty and Population 10. Sociology of the American Family 11. Sociology of Religion 12. Sociology of Alcohol and Drugs 13. Guns, Crime and Violence 14. Poverty, Homelessness and the Cities 15. Urban Sociology 16. Social Inequalities and Health 17. Social Policy and Evaluation Research 18. My Life as a Sociologist
