Understanding Social Problems

by Linda A. Mooney, David Knox Jr., Caroline Schacht

This is a comprehensive mid-level paperback text that takes a theoretically balanced, student-centered approach to social problems. It is unique in that it progresses from a micro- to macro-level of analysis, focusing first on such problems as health care, drug use, and family and then broadening to the widening concerns of such topics as population growth and conflict around the world. The text is also distinctive in that every chapter defines the nature of social problems in a global context as well as a U.S. context. Its micro- to macro-level of analysis is also present in the way it explores social problems and enables students to apply what they learn to themselves. On the macro level, the text explores each of the three major theoretical explanations, describes the consequences of the problem, and provides alternatives solutions and policies. On the micro level, pedagogical features such as The Human Side and Self and Society enable students to understand social problems and see how what they learn applies to themselves. This dual approach enables students to learn about social problems in a unique organized manner that facilitates learning by making it more relevant to themselves on a personal level.

Genres: Textbooks, Social Science, Nonfiction, Sociology

591 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1996

Reviews

[Meghan · Rating 1 out of 5]

just finished this book for my social problems class.

As a.. non-sociologist, I have this to say:

What's notable here is how disconnected the writers are from real people, and real life. I'm frightened that they are training people for careers in this field. Wish I had a 'no star' option.

What's also notable here is the amount of politics that sneak into this book. Comments are made- on purpose or in passing- on factory farming, the importance of internet regulation, and many other issues that are only defined as 'social problems' if the term is very, very loose. Although not a republican myself, I began to feel sorry for any in my class.

I will include the following quote, found near the beginning of the book. Maybe it doesn't disturb you, but I found it very frightening:

"...Rampant individualism does not bring with it sweet freedom; rather, it explodes in our faces and limits life's potential."

Granted, this is a quote the book includes from another source. Granted, we need to watch our for our fellow man, try not to pollute, and generally consider ourselves part of a community. But I hate the deeper message in this (rather long) paragraph: that individual thought is the wrong choice, and freedom is a bad thing. I, for one, want to see MORE out of the box thinking out there.. not less.

I won't comment on the class- that's another discussion for somewhere else- but this book killed what little faith I had left in experts, and failed to dazzle me with insight on any level. Hopefully sociologists have more to offer than this book suggests.

[Patty Powers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm glad they've updated it to include sections on homosexuality, gender identity, and rights. There's also a large new section on war, conflict, and terrorism. It's a great book for anyone interested in society and current events

[holden]

not a great textbook. some really outrageously naive and even occasionally dangerous/stupid content, especially re: LGBTQ people. encouraging students to question whether trans women and men deserve the same rights as cis women and men with a deceptively innocent "What do YOU think?" exercise? really? please.

[Ireland · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a textbook I had to use for my Problems of Modern Society class. But a textbook is still a book. I thought the topics it discusses were interesting, even if I didn’t agree with everything it said.

[Caitlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good overview; obviously needs updating.

[Patrick · Rating 2 out of 5]

Textbook, No Comment.

[Kate Cardenas · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is complex but understandable when you start having lectures on it from your teacher.