This textbook is the only major introduction to social psychology that provides a conceptually and thematically integrated approach to the science of social behavior. Unlike the majority of textbooks that portray social psychology as a list of interesting -- but seemingly unrelated -- phenomena, Smith, Mackie and Claypool show how the major topics and themes in the discipline are, in reality, deeply interconnected. As such, it provides a uniquely rich, meaningful, and logical appreciation of human social behavior that students can relate to the world around them and apply to their own lives. In addition to the unifying themes and principles that run throughout the book, there is also recognition that social processes are intertwined with cognitive processes which creates much of the tension and dynamic in real-world settings. Finally, there is the appplication of the science of social psychology and to real-life: this not only includes the major societal institutions, such as law and business, but also to issues as diverse as interpersonal relationships, media and marketing, social support, the environment, nutrition, and international relations.This fourth edition has been thoroughly updated and includes much richer pedagogy than its predecessors, both within the book and online.
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.