The Practical Skeptic: Core Concepts in Sociology

by Lisa J. McIntyre

Lisa McIntyre's straightforward style and her emphasis on concepts and critical thinking make The Practical Skeptic an introductory sociology text at once engaging, readable, and downright fun. The third edition remains a concise introductory text that focuses on core concepts as the central building blocks for understanding sociology, and features numerous pedagogical aids to help students grasp key sociological concepts.

Genres: Sociology, Nonfiction, Textbooks

304 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1998

Reviews

[Luka Kawashima · Rating 2 out of 5]

Definitely a 'broad but shallow' approach, which makes sense for an intro textbook but I think it still could have benefitted from a more specific/technical treatment

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic introduction to sociology text book! Clear, concise, narrative writing with a hint of humor made it an enjoyable read. I would highly recommend this to professors looking for required reading for intro sociology courses as each chapter is well written from a general perspective which makes it easy for those new to sociology concepts and terms to understand. Throughout each chapter the author also provides stop and review sections and has chapter summaries at the end that encourage students to review and reflect on what they have learned.

[AngelLeah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this book was fantastic. Lisa McIntyre's writing is perfect for a first sociology course. She uses real life examples that are so easy to understand and very interesting. This was a required book for my course, but I enjoyed reading it so much that I would recommend it to someone who is just interested in learning on their own. Be sure to check out her companion book with readings on sociological studies.

[Kyaw Win Tun · Rating 5 out of 5]

It gives me some "lens" to see a big picture of social institutions and social structure. The lens also let me see myself in my society. Researches of different topics like the classic prison experiment, situated power in the classroom, cultural capital in military trainings explain to some extent how a social setting or institution can shape a person.

[Mariah · Rating 2 out of 5]

It's a textbook from my Sociology 101 class- and it certainly does it's job well explaining concepts of sociology. But unlike, say Spirit of Sociology, it's not something I would suggest you go out of your way to read unless it's assigned.

[Hazel Gonzalez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Phenomenal intro to Sociology!

[Brandee Terry · Rating 3 out of 5]

Textbook for my Intro to Sociology class. It turned out to be a pretty interesting read.

[Neysa · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was an awesome book. A nice change in perspective.