Read the 4th edition. Did not read it cover to cover, used it for an assignment. Really enjoyed the way that the big themes and theories among those themes are written down in this book. No matter what page I open the book in and start reading, after a few minutes I always get the "aha! that explains so much" -feeling. The writers wrote down in a clear and scientifically substantiated way so much recognizable things from daily life. Very enjoyable, although to be honest I don't think I will ever read cover to cover. Nice to pull out of the book case every now and then and flip through, though (if I ever get the time).
This is a hard one. On one hand, it's a very clear and usually well-written book. On the other hand, it refers to research conducted in the eighties as 'recent'. Also, one of the authors' (I'm not sure whom) writing styles is annoying. He or she uses 'for example' so frequently it starts to get annoying in the first couple of chapters, and only increases if you continue reading. Lastly, the layout of the book is pretty boring, and doesn't really 'draw you in'.
All things considered, I would recommend this book. Because it thorougly explains most events and concepts of social psychology rather well. And reading about the countless clever and creative researches is very inspiring.
Great book. This is my first psychology textbook, and I really enjoyed the way in which theory is presented and illustrated with studied cases and charts that help us see it more easily. Very insightful to many aspects of one's own life, even as a student. Highly recommended. I just wish I had read the newer edition, because some of the facts presented in this second edition seem a little dated now, in 2011-12.