Introduction to Sociology

Introduction to Sociology

Publisher
Routledge
Published
2020
Pages
512
ISBN-13
9780815353850
Format
print
Language
English

Comprehensive and engaging, this textbook introduces students not only to foundational sociological work, but also to insights from contemporary sociological theory and research. …

Book Summary
Introduction to Sociology by Frank Van Tubergen is a comprehensive textbook that equips students with a sociological toolkit to understand complex social phenomena. It combines foundational and contemporary theory, methods, and empirical findings, covering topics like crime, immigration, race, education, family, gender, and religion. With pedagogical features like chapter summaries, thinking boxes, and a companion website, it guides students to think like sociologists and apply concepts to real-world issues.
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About Introduction to Sociology

Introduction to Sociology by Frank Van Tubergen offers a complete sociological toolkit for students new to the discipline. The textbook integrates foundational sociological work with contemporary theory and research, ensuring readers grasp core concepts, perspectives, methods, and findings. It teaches the art of asking sociological questions, devising sophisticated theories, and developing methodologies to observe social phenomena. Chapters build cumulatively, enabling students to quickly understand any new sociological topic or contemporary social problem. The book applies this toolkit to key issues such as crime, immigration, race and ethnicity, media, education, family, organizations, gender, poverty, modernization, and religion, taking a global and comparative perspective. Pedagogical features include chapter overviews, learning goals, 'Thinking like a sociologist' boxes, principle boxes, theory schema boxes, stylized facts, key concepts, and summaries. A companion website provides additional resources for instructors and students, including PowerPoint slides, discussion questions, multiple-choice questions, and further reading.

Who should read Introduction to Sociology?

This textbook is ideal for undergraduate students taking introductory sociology courses, as well as instructors seeking a comprehensive and engaging resource. It suits students in related fields like social work, education, and political science who need a solid foundation in sociological thinking. High school students preparing for advanced study or anyone curious about how society works will also benefit. The clear structure and pedagogical features make it accessible for self-learners and those new to sociology, while the global perspective appeals to readers interested in comparative social analysis.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • ✓ Comprehensive coverage of foundational and contemporary sociological theory and research
  • ✓ Clear pedagogical features like chapter summaries, learning goals, and 'Thinking like a sociologist' boxes
  • ✓ Global and comparative perspective with diverse topics such as crime, immigration, and religion
  • ✓ Cumulative structure builds a sociological toolkit for analyzing any social phenomenon
  • ✓ Companion website offers additional resources for both instructors and students
Cons
  • ✗ Some readers may find the textbook dense and academic in tone
  • ✗ Limited focus on certain specialized areas like environmental sociology or digital sociology
  • ✗ Companion website access may require institutional subscription or additional cost
  • ✗ Examples and data may become dated over time, requiring supplementary updates
  • ✗ Not a lightweight introduction; may be overwhelming for absolute beginners
Frequently asked questions
Is this book suitable for self-study?
Yes, the textbook is designed with clear learning goals, summaries, and key concepts, making it accessible for self-learners. The companion website provides additional support, though some resources may require instructor access.
Does it cover contemporary sociological theories?
Yes, the book integrates both foundational and contemporary sociological theory and research, ensuring students are familiar with current perspectives and debates.
What topics are covered?
It covers a wide range of topics including crime, immigration, race and ethnicity, media, education, family, organizations, gender, poverty, modernization, and religion, all from a global and comparative perspective.
Is there a companion website?
Yes, a companion website provides additional material for every chapter, including PowerPoint lecture notes, discussion questions and answers, multiple-choice questions, and further reading for both instructors and students.
Is this book appropriate for advanced high school students?
While primarily aimed at undergraduates, advanced high school students or those preparing for college-level sociology may find it useful, especially with guidance from a teacher.

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