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Sociology [with MySocLab & eText Access Code]
This best-selling comprehensive introduction to sociology--text/multimedia package--features the exceptionally strong combination of a global perspective, focus on social diversity, emphasis on critical thinking, and cutting-edge research base (including Census 2000).
A widely acclaimed writing style, vivid illustration program, and extensive highlight features--applied chapter-opening vignettes, full-color Global and National Maps, thought-provoking theme boxes, applications and exercises--capture reader's imaginations and help them see clearly how sociological concepts and issues affect not only life in general, but their individual lives as well. An accompanying CD-ROM features a library of video selections illustration major concepts and theories, animated Global and National Maps, author's tips, chapter slide shows, etc. A companion Website is also available.
The Sociological Perspective. Sociological Investigation. Culture. Society. Socialization. Social Interaction in Everyday Life. Groups and Organizations. Deviance. Sexuality. Social Stratification. Social Class in the United States. Global Stratification. Gender Stratification. Race and Ethnicity. Aging and the Elderly. The Economy and Work. Politics and Government. Family. Religion. Education. Health and Medicine. Population, Urbanization, and Environment. Collective Behavior and Social Movements. Social Change: Traditional, Modern, and Postmodern Societies.
For anyone interested in a cutting-edge introduction to sociology and social diversity from a global perspective.
A widely acclaimed writing style, vivid illustration program, and extensive highlight features--applied chapter-opening vignettes, full-color Global and National Maps, thought-provoking theme boxes, applications and exercises--capture reader's imaginations and help them see clearly how sociological concepts and issues affect not only life in general, but their individual lives as well. An accompanying CD-ROM features a library of video selections illustration major concepts and theories, animated Global and National Maps, author's tips, chapter slide shows, etc. A companion Website is also available.
The Sociological Perspective. Sociological Investigation. Culture. Society. Socialization. Social Interaction in Everyday Life. Groups and Organizations. Deviance. Sexuality. Social Stratification. Social Class in the United States. Global Stratification. Gender Stratification. Race and Ethnicity. Aging and the Elderly. The Economy and Work. Politics and Government. Family. Religion. Education. Health and Medicine. Population, Urbanization, and Environment. Collective Behavior and Social Movements. Social Change: Traditional, Modern, and Postmodern Societies.
For anyone interested in a cutting-edge introduction to sociology and social diversity from a global perspective.
410 pages, Hardcover
First published July 1, 1987
136 people are currently reading
1904 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
May 21, 2012
I cannot believe I actually finished it. Sure did take me a while.
I started reading this book my first semester in New York. It was for my Sociology class and I gotta say that book was amazing. I got happy when I discovered that we were using the same book for the next class spring semester.
When I got home from my year abroad I hadn't read all chapters and decided to do that. Funny story, it's not only a thick book, it's also large and extremely heavy. Like walking around with a 50 pound heavy book.
So, I was going home to Sweden again and had my hand luggage up for weighing. The lady working at the air port was like "Could you rearrange your packing, this bag is way too heavy" so I started to unpack school book... after school book... after school book... Suddenly the lady is like "you know what, just pack it all again and it'll be our little secret." Education is the secret to having a way too heavy bag while traveling.
Anyway, so the book. It's amazing and if you're curous about the subject of Sociolgy, this sure is the one too read. It has it all, theories, maps, articles, pictures etc. and it's written in a very fun and easy way to understand. I've been able to use the book for a lot of papers I've had this year at Global Development.
I'm so proud for having finished it. I could only read it at home at my dad's - when I werent too tired. So it took me over a year, but it's worth it.
I started reading this book my first semester in New York. It was for my Sociology class and I gotta say that book was amazing. I got happy when I discovered that we were using the same book for the next class spring semester.
When I got home from my year abroad I hadn't read all chapters and decided to do that. Funny story, it's not only a thick book, it's also large and extremely heavy. Like walking around with a 50 pound heavy book.
So, I was going home to Sweden again and had my hand luggage up for weighing. The lady working at the air port was like "Could you rearrange your packing, this bag is way too heavy" so I started to unpack school book... after school book... after school book... Suddenly the lady is like "you know what, just pack it all again and it'll be our little secret." Education is the secret to having a way too heavy bag while traveling.
Anyway, so the book. It's amazing and if you're curous about the subject of Sociolgy, this sure is the one too read. It has it all, theories, maps, articles, pictures etc. and it's written in a very fun and easy way to understand. I've been able to use the book for a lot of papers I've had this year at Global Development.
I'm so proud for having finished it. I could only read it at home at my dad's - when I werent too tired. So it took me over a year, but it's worth it.
June 5, 2011
One of the best textbooks I've ever had to read! The reading wasn't too heavy or confusing, and included a lot of stories, examples, and discussions about the concepts to help further any understanding.
March 31, 2015
This was my textbook in my undergraduate sociology class, and I still use it today for my graduate studies, as it is a gold mine for numerous social theories and concepts that I cite in my reports and papers. There are lots and lots of good examples and the illustrations and photos are sure to get your attention.
November 13, 2012
My 1st book through which I studied General Sociology.
Read
May 9, 2014A recommended book for Sociologists.
November 16, 2017
Best book about sociology ever, recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2024
Book of the Day – Sociology
Today’s Book of the Day is SOCIOLOGY, written by John J. Macionis and published by Pearson.
John J. Macionis is an American Professor of Sociology and a renowned author. He writes on a broad range of topics apart from sociology, including community life in the United States, interpersonal intimacy in families, effective teaching, humor, new information technology, and the importance of global education.
I have chosen this book because it is one of the essential books I often cite about sociology.
This book, to me, stands as a cornerstone for those seeking an introduction to the vast and ever-evolving field of sociology. MACIONIS takes the reader on a captivating journey, unravelling the complex forces that shape our social world.
Throughout the book, he brings together an exceptionally rich tapestry of sociological theories, research findings, and real-life examples, giving readers of every level a deeper understanding of the social structures, processes, and interactions that influence our lives.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its emphasis on a global perspective.
MACIONIS brilliantly goes over the limitations of a purely Western-centric approach, instead incorporating diverse sociological viewpoints and illustrating how social phenomena manifest differently across cultures. This global outlook encourages the readers to think critically about their own social location and recognize the interconnectedness of societies worldwide.
The text is further strengthened by its focus on social diversity. MACIONIS delves into the experiences of various social groups, including those based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and social class. This nuanced approach sheds light on the power dynamics at play within societies and the challenges faced by marginalized groups.
The author’s writing style is, at the same time, highly engaging and easily accessible. He avoids drowning the reader in complex jargon, opting for clear and concise language that effectively conveys even the most intricate concepts. The generous use of vivid illustrations, case studies, and thought-provoking questions further enhances comprehension and ignites curiosity.
Each chapter delves into a specific aspect of social life, from the intricacies of social interaction and deviance to the powerful forces of social stratification and global inequality.
The book doesn’t shy away from presenting the multifaceted nature of sociology. MACIONIS acknowledges the existence of competing theoretical paradigms, encouraging the reader to critically evaluate their strengths and limitations. This balanced approach fosters intellectual growth and equips students, researchers, and interested readers with the tools to navigate the complexities of sociological inquiry.
The text is further bolstered by its commitment to staying abreast of the latest sociological research and trends. MACIONIS incorporates recent data and contemporary social issues, ensuring that readers gain a well-rounded understanding of the ever-evolving social landscape. This focus on contemporary relevance makes “Sociology” a valuable resource not just for students, but for anyone seeking to make sense of the complex social world we inhabit. Every new edition adds value in this process of keeping the book aligned with the most recent research and studies about the topic.
What I also loved is the vast array of topics and the good amount of information covered in this book. Also, I appreciated the extent and the depth of the discussion on most treated topics.
The author excels at demonstrating the practical application of the sociological concepts he discusses. The book is peppered with sections called Seeing Sociology in Everyday Life that showcase how sociological theories play out in our daily experiences, from social media interactions to family dynamics. This makes the material even more relatable to every reader and fosters a deeper understanding of how social forces shape our lives.
Finally, the book encourages readers to think critically about the social world around them. The Thinking Critically sections pose thought-provoking questions that challenge assumptions and prompt deeper reflection on social norms and institutions. This approach empowers readers to become active participants in shaping their understanding of society.
Overall, MACIONIS‘ Sociology is an excellent, almost invaluable resource for anyone seeking to understand the social world around them. Its emphasis on global perspectives, engaging writing style, and balanced presentation of sociological thought make it a compelling read.
The valuable insights it offers undoubtedly make it a worthwhile investment for those curious about the fascinating world of sociology.
Today’s Book of the Day is SOCIOLOGY, written by John J. Macionis and published by Pearson.
John J. Macionis is an American Professor of Sociology and a renowned author. He writes on a broad range of topics apart from sociology, including community life in the United States, interpersonal intimacy in families, effective teaching, humor, new information technology, and the importance of global education.
I have chosen this book because it is one of the essential books I often cite about sociology.
This book, to me, stands as a cornerstone for those seeking an introduction to the vast and ever-evolving field of sociology. MACIONIS takes the reader on a captivating journey, unravelling the complex forces that shape our social world.
Throughout the book, he brings together an exceptionally rich tapestry of sociological theories, research findings, and real-life examples, giving readers of every level a deeper understanding of the social structures, processes, and interactions that influence our lives.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its emphasis on a global perspective.
MACIONIS brilliantly goes over the limitations of a purely Western-centric approach, instead incorporating diverse sociological viewpoints and illustrating how social phenomena manifest differently across cultures. This global outlook encourages the readers to think critically about their own social location and recognize the interconnectedness of societies worldwide.
The text is further strengthened by its focus on social diversity. MACIONIS delves into the experiences of various social groups, including those based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and social class. This nuanced approach sheds light on the power dynamics at play within societies and the challenges faced by marginalized groups.
The author’s writing style is, at the same time, highly engaging and easily accessible. He avoids drowning the reader in complex jargon, opting for clear and concise language that effectively conveys even the most intricate concepts. The generous use of vivid illustrations, case studies, and thought-provoking questions further enhances comprehension and ignites curiosity.
Each chapter delves into a specific aspect of social life, from the intricacies of social interaction and deviance to the powerful forces of social stratification and global inequality.
The book doesn’t shy away from presenting the multifaceted nature of sociology. MACIONIS acknowledges the existence of competing theoretical paradigms, encouraging the reader to critically evaluate their strengths and limitations. This balanced approach fosters intellectual growth and equips students, researchers, and interested readers with the tools to navigate the complexities of sociological inquiry.
The text is further bolstered by its commitment to staying abreast of the latest sociological research and trends. MACIONIS incorporates recent data and contemporary social issues, ensuring that readers gain a well-rounded understanding of the ever-evolving social landscape. This focus on contemporary relevance makes “Sociology” a valuable resource not just for students, but for anyone seeking to make sense of the complex social world we inhabit. Every new edition adds value in this process of keeping the book aligned with the most recent research and studies about the topic.
What I also loved is the vast array of topics and the good amount of information covered in this book. Also, I appreciated the extent and the depth of the discussion on most treated topics.
The author excels at demonstrating the practical application of the sociological concepts he discusses. The book is peppered with sections called Seeing Sociology in Everyday Life that showcase how sociological theories play out in our daily experiences, from social media interactions to family dynamics. This makes the material even more relatable to every reader and fosters a deeper understanding of how social forces shape our lives.
Finally, the book encourages readers to think critically about the social world around them. The Thinking Critically sections pose thought-provoking questions that challenge assumptions and prompt deeper reflection on social norms and institutions. This approach empowers readers to become active participants in shaping their understanding of society.
Overall, MACIONIS‘ Sociology is an excellent, almost invaluable resource for anyone seeking to understand the social world around them. Its emphasis on global perspectives, engaging writing style, and balanced presentation of sociological thought make it a compelling read.
The valuable insights it offers undoubtedly make it a worthwhile investment for those curious about the fascinating world of sociology.
June 3, 2020
(The English review is placed beneath Russian one)
Среди 800 страничных учебников найдётся мало таких, которые было бы также интересно читать как научно-популярные книги. На ум приходит только Дэвид Майерс и Котлер. Данная же книга становится для меня четвёртой в списке «толстенный – но интересный» учебник по гуманитарным наукам. Однако нужно признаться, что по сравнению с вышеперечисленными авторами, данная книга всё же слабее. Возможно, даже намного.
Во-первых, эта одна из тех книг, что пригодится именно тогда, когда человек только начинает знакомиться с академической литературой, т.е. когда у читателя прочитанных нехудожественных книг не больше 50, а взгляд на мир и происходящие в нём процессы ещё толком не сформировались. Я это пишу по той простой причине, что читая книгу, я читал то, что и так давно знал. И так на протяжении всех 800 страниц. Поэтому эффект будет намного больше, если эта книга станет одной из первой с которой познакомится читатель. Что касается меня, то от скуки меня спас хороший стиль авторов и некоторые моменты, которые мне были не столь хорошо известны. Однако тут мы сталкиваемся с тем, что, несмотря на то, что многие темы были интересны, но лёгкий стиль, похоже, не подразумевал глубокого погружения в материал, а, следовательно, мы плавно вплываем во вторую проблему – поверхностность книги.
Во-вторых, книга, как и многие подобные академические учебники, которые затрагивают такие масштабные темы, довольно поверхностна. Да, всё было интересно читать, но вот только авторы предлагали, что называется, только самое основное, то, что лежит на поверхности темы. Поэтому не стоит ждать от книги более серьёзного и глубокого анализа. Из-за чего мы делаем вывод, что это 100% учебник для студентов первого года обучения (после школы). Он как бы предназначен дать общую картину, т.е. чтобы сначала заинтересовать читателя темой, чтобы он дальше сам углубился в тему социологии и обратился к более специализированной литературе. Так что повторюсь, книга для тех, кому 18-25 лет.
В-третьих, автор, по сути, будет рассматривать социологию с трёх основных точек зрения: 1. с центриской точки зрения (или нейтральной, той, что свойственна большинству людей, мейнстрим), 2. с точки зрения марксизма и 3. с точки зрения феминизма. Дикая смесь, не правда ли? Хотя, возможно, для первого знакомства, вполне нормально. Я бы даже больше сказал, книга определённо написана сторонниками Демократической партии США, ибо всё очень политкорректно и гладко. Авторы явно старались изо всех сил никого (точнее, никакое меньшинство) не обидеть. И не то, чтобы это бросалось в глаза, но общее ощущение именно такое. И да, книга, тем не менее, политически нейтральна.
В общем, книга неплохая, читается легко и приятно, предлагается множество тем, а также дальнейшие шаги с целью более глубокого ознакомления с конкретной темой (женщина в обществе; влияние культурных факторов; пол и возраст; семья и пр.). Я имею в виду, что авторы пусть и очень коротко, но интересно описывают каждый вопрос, который связан с предметом «Социология». Поэтому существует высокая доля вероятности, что читатели после прочтения этой книги обратятся к более специализированной литературе и/или к тем авторам, кото��ые цитируются в данной книге.
И последнее. Я повторяю, не стоит ждать от этого учебника каких-то глубокий исследований. Это книга, именно что для студентов первого года обучения, тех, кто только знакомится с такими направлениями как социология, экономика, менеджмент, маркетинг, политология, история.
Among the 800-page textbooks are few that would also be interesting to read as popular science books. The only thing that comes to mind is David G. Myers and Philip Kotler. The same book is the fourth in my list of "thick but interesting" liberal arts textbooks. However, I must admit that this book is still weaker than the above authors.
First of all, this is one of those books that will be useful when a person is just beginning to get acquainted with academic literature, when the read nonfiction books are not more than 50, and the view on the world and the processes taking place in it have not been formed yet. I am writing this for the simple reason that when I was reading this book I was reading what I already have known. Therefore, the effect will be much greater if this book becomes one of the first to be acquainted with by the reader. As for me, I was saved from boredom by the good style of the authors and some moments that were not so well known to me. But here we can find that even though many of the topics were interesting, but the light style didn't seem to imply a deep immersion into the material, and therefore we are smoothly going into the second problem - the superficiality of the book.
Secondly, the book, as well as many similar academic textbooks that address such large-scale topics, is rather superficial. Yes, everything was interesting to read, but the authors only have offered what is just the most basic thing, what lies on the surface of the topic. Therefore, one should not expect a more serious and in-depth analysis of the book. That's why we conclude that this is a 100% textbook for students of the first year of study (after school). It is intended to give a general picture, i.e. to first interest the reader in the topic, so that he or she can go further into the topic of sociology and turn to more specialized literature. So again, the book is for those who are 18-25 years old.
Third, the author will essentially consider sociology from three main points of view: 1. from the central point of view (or neutral, which is characteristic of most people, mainstream), 2. from the point of view of Marxism, and 3. from the point of view of feminism. A wild mixture, isn't it? Although, perhaps, for the first acquaintance, it is quite normal. I'd say that the book is surely written by supporters of the U.S. Democratic Party because everything is very politically correct and smooth. The authors tried their best not to offend anyone (or rather any minority). It's not that it's obvious, but that's a general feeling. And yes, the book, however, is politically neutral.
In general, the book is not bad and can be read easily and pleasantly, it offers a lot of topics, as well as further steps to get acquainted with a particular topic (women in society; the influence of cultural factors; gender and age; family, etc.). I mean that the authors, albeit very briefly, but interestingly describe each issue related to the subject of "Sociology". Therefore, there is a high probability that readers, after reading this book, will turn to more specialized literature and/or to those authors who are quoted in this book.
And lastly. I repeat: do not expect any in-depth research from this textbook. This is a book specifically for students in their first year of study, who are just getting acquainted with such areas as sociology, economics, management, marketing, political science and history.
Среди 800 страничных учебников найдётся мало таких, которые было бы также интересно читать как научно-популярные книги. На ум приходит только Дэвид Майерс и Котлер. Данная же книга становится для меня четвёртой в списке «толстенный – но интересный» учебник по гуманитарным наукам. Однако нужно признаться, что по сравнению с вышеперечисленными авторами, данная книга всё же слабее. Возможно, даже намного.
Во-первых, эта одна из тех книг, что пригодится именно тогда, когда человек только начинает знакомиться с академической литературой, т.е. когда у читателя прочитанных нехудожественных книг не больше 50, а взгляд на мир и происходящие в нём процессы ещё толком не сформировались. Я это пишу по той простой причине, что читая книгу, я читал то, что и так давно знал. И так на протяжении всех 800 страниц. Поэтому эффект будет намного больше, если эта книга станет одной из первой с которой познакомится читатель. Что касается меня, то от скуки меня спас хороший стиль авторов и некоторые моменты, которые мне были не столь хорошо известны. Однако тут мы сталкиваемся с тем, что, несмотря на то, что многие темы были интересны, но лёгкий стиль, похоже, не подразумевал глубокого погружения в материал, а, следовательно, мы плавно вплываем во вторую проблему – поверхностность книги.
Во-вторых, книга, как и многие подобные академические учебники, которые затрагивают такие масштабные темы, довольно поверхностна. Да, всё было интересно читать, но вот только авторы предлагали, что называется, только самое основное, то, что лежит на поверхности темы. Поэтому не стоит ждать от книги более серьёзного и глубокого анализа. Из-за чего мы делаем вывод, что это 100% учебник для студентов первого года обучения (после школы). Он как бы предназначен дать общую картину, т.е. чтобы сначала заинтересовать читателя темой, чтобы он дальше сам углубился в тему социологии и обратился к более специализированной литературе. Так что повторюсь, книга для тех, кому 18-25 лет.
В-третьих, автор, по сути, будет рассматривать социологию с трёх основных точек зрения: 1. с центриской точки зрения (или нейтральной, той, что свойственна большинству людей, мейнстрим), 2. с точки зрения марксизма и 3. с точки зрения феминизма. Дикая смесь, не правда ли? Хотя, возможно, для первого знакомства, вполне нормально. Я бы даже больше сказал, книга определённо написана сторонниками Демократической партии США, ибо всё очень политкорректно и гладко. Авторы явно старались изо всех сил никого (точнее, никакое меньшинство) не обидеть. И не то, чтобы это бросалось в глаза, но общее ощущение именно такое. И да, книга, тем не менее, политически нейтральна.
В общем, книга неплохая, читается легко и приятно, предлагается множество тем, а также дальнейшие шаги с целью более глубокого ознакомления с конкретной темой (женщина в обществе; влияние культурных факторов; пол и возраст; семья и пр.). Я имею в виду, что авторы пусть и очень коротко, но интересно описывают каждый вопрос, который связан с предметом «Социология». Поэтому существует высокая доля вероятности, что читатели после прочтения этой книги обратятся к более специализированной литературе и/или к тем авторам, кото��ые цитируются в данной книге.
И последнее. Я повторяю, не стоит ждать от этого учебника каких-то глубокий исследований. Это книга, именно что для студентов первого года обучения, тех, кто только знакомится с такими направлениями как социология, экономика, менеджмент, маркетинг, политология, история.
Among the 800-page textbooks are few that would also be interesting to read as popular science books. The only thing that comes to mind is David G. Myers and Philip Kotler. The same book is the fourth in my list of "thick but interesting" liberal arts textbooks. However, I must admit that this book is still weaker than the above authors.
First of all, this is one of those books that will be useful when a person is just beginning to get acquainted with academic literature, when the read nonfiction books are not more than 50, and the view on the world and the processes taking place in it have not been formed yet. I am writing this for the simple reason that when I was reading this book I was reading what I already have known. Therefore, the effect will be much greater if this book becomes one of the first to be acquainted with by the reader. As for me, I was saved from boredom by the good style of the authors and some moments that were not so well known to me. But here we can find that even though many of the topics were interesting, but the light style didn't seem to imply a deep immersion into the material, and therefore we are smoothly going into the second problem - the superficiality of the book.
Secondly, the book, as well as many similar academic textbooks that address such large-scale topics, is rather superficial. Yes, everything was interesting to read, but the authors only have offered what is just the most basic thing, what lies on the surface of the topic. Therefore, one should not expect a more serious and in-depth analysis of the book. That's why we conclude that this is a 100% textbook for students of the first year of study (after school). It is intended to give a general picture, i.e. to first interest the reader in the topic, so that he or she can go further into the topic of sociology and turn to more specialized literature. So again, the book is for those who are 18-25 years old.
Third, the author will essentially consider sociology from three main points of view: 1. from the central point of view (or neutral, which is characteristic of most people, mainstream), 2. from the point of view of Marxism, and 3. from the point of view of feminism. A wild mixture, isn't it? Although, perhaps, for the first acquaintance, it is quite normal. I'd say that the book is surely written by supporters of the U.S. Democratic Party because everything is very politically correct and smooth. The authors tried their best not to offend anyone (or rather any minority). It's not that it's obvious, but that's a general feeling. And yes, the book, however, is politically neutral.
In general, the book is not bad and can be read easily and pleasantly, it offers a lot of topics, as well as further steps to get acquainted with a particular topic (women in society; the influence of cultural factors; gender and age; family, etc.). I mean that the authors, albeit very briefly, but interestingly describe each issue related to the subject of "Sociology". Therefore, there is a high probability that readers, after reading this book, will turn to more specialized literature and/or to those authors who are quoted in this book.
And lastly. I repeat: do not expect any in-depth research from this textbook. This is a book specifically for students in their first year of study, who are just getting acquainted with such areas as sociology, economics, management, marketing, political science and history.
March 25, 2025
Recommended for: Competitive Exam Aspirants,Students, educators, or anyone curious about understanding basics of society and human behavior.
John J. Macionis’s Sociology is a comprehensive and engaging introduction to the discipline, perfect for those just beginning their sociological journey. The book strikes a balance between academic depth and accessibility, making complex concepts digestible without oversimplifying them.
One of the standout features is Macionis’s ability to relate sociological theories to current, real-world events. Through rich examples, diverse perspectives, and updated data, he keeps the material relevant. Topics such as gender, race, inequality, culture, deviance, and globalization are treated with clarity and nuance.
The layout of the book is student-friendly — key terms are highlighted, chapters end with summaries and review questions, and visuals are used effectively to reinforce learning. The inclusion of sociological perspectives (structural-functional, conflict, and symbolic-interaction) in almost every chapter helps readers build a solid theoretical foundation.
However, as with many textbooks, some parts can feel dense or overly repetitive if you're reading cover-to-cover. Still, for course-based or selective reading, it’s a gem.
John J. Macionis’s Sociology is a comprehensive and engaging introduction to the discipline, perfect for those just beginning their sociological journey. The book strikes a balance between academic depth and accessibility, making complex concepts digestible without oversimplifying them.
One of the standout features is Macionis’s ability to relate sociological theories to current, real-world events. Through rich examples, diverse perspectives, and updated data, he keeps the material relevant. Topics such as gender, race, inequality, culture, deviance, and globalization are treated with clarity and nuance.
The layout of the book is student-friendly — key terms are highlighted, chapters end with summaries and review questions, and visuals are used effectively to reinforce learning. The inclusion of sociological perspectives (structural-functional, conflict, and symbolic-interaction) in almost every chapter helps readers build a solid theoretical foundation.
However, as with many textbooks, some parts can feel dense or overly repetitive if you're reading cover-to-cover. Still, for course-based or selective reading, it’s a gem.
December 15, 2018
The most widely adopted sociology text, Sociology, The book offers a fresh and contemporary perspective with a focus on the major methods, theories, and findings of the field. Its emphasis on cultivating a global perspective, its multicultural view, its focus on critical thinking, and its abundance of boxed features highlighting and personalizing contemporary applications appeal to students across all academic backgrounds.
August 8, 2018
Enjoyed reading this textbook for my Sociology class
December 23, 2020
I read it during 2020, it is obsolete nowadays. I guess it was interesting in its prime
A couple of chapters were of note even today
Wouldn't recommend it though
A couple of chapters were of note even today
Wouldn't recommend it though
Currently reading
March 27, 2022i want to read just for a knowledge
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2022
Sociology 9
Want to read
February 23, 2023301 Mac c.1
Read
March 1, 2017Easy and best book on sociology.
September 27, 2013
This book was given to me by a family friend when I graduated from grade school. At first, I was reluctant in reading this volume because it was very long and purely academic. Nevertheless, I enjoyed this book immensely and I usually turn to the author's memoirs, my favorite one about his comparison of the notion of "growing old" in America and in Asian countries, wherein he recounts a Sinhalese taxi driver saying "We are not like you, we do not leave our elders to die alone" when he asks an implied question about extended families. Among other things, I tend to reread this text when I run out of history texts or historical fiction novels. Through this book, I also learned to appreciate Emile Durkheim as well as other pioneering sociologists in their fields. I love the author's way of telling academic lessons by spinning stories with real life experiences and blending in statistics and factoids. Overall, four stars for a very informative and mildly entertaining academic narrative.
January 31, 2011
Each chapter tells us how "not right" is our world: how rich dominate the poor, how male dominate women, how majorities suppress minorities, etc.
Why does it keep going this way even today? Because we are being taught this way! Our wicked values are passed from generation to generation. Sadly, most of us don't even notice this.
The bigger question is how did all this injustice get started? Somewhere in time it had to start.
Why does it keep going this way even today? Because we are being taught this way! Our wicked values are passed from generation to generation. Sadly, most of us don't even notice this.
The bigger question is how did all this injustice get started? Somewhere in time it had to start.
May 18, 2012
While I am not a huge proponent of text books and prefer primary texts, it is a great introduction to sociology - covers a lot in a few pages and offers several troubling questions and factoids that should get students' brains a-whirling.
July 13, 2020
Amusing book to help you view the world, especially human society, with different and non-general perspective. Once you drown into Sociology, you will never be the same - this book is like a tool help it reader think critically towards their society.
Want to read
May 21, 2013Interesting.
Read
October 10, 2012i will read this
November 11, 2012
Aww... this was the textbook that convinced me to switch majors and study sociology. Wonderful book. Can't say enough good things. An excellent introduction to the discipline.
November 13, 2012
I still remember, my sociology madam use to call this book "bible of sociology"
Currently reading
December 20, 2013i feel good after reading it
May 9, 2014
The book is actually amazing and a must read to genius
September 2, 2014
Content wise, I learned a lot from this book but I had to make myself read it because it was so dry. I am passionate about Sociology and I still found this book difficult to read.
Currently reading
September 20, 2014I freaking need this
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