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An Introduction to Sociology
Second Edition
Edited by:
- Karim Murji - University of West London, UK
- Sarah Neal - University of Sheffield, UK
- John Solomos - The University of Warwick, UK
April 2026 | 744 pages | SAGE Publications Ltd
An Introduction to Sociology is your essential guide to understanding the social forces that shape our lives and the world around us.
This innovative textbook introduces you to the key theories, themes, and concepts in the discipline of sociology. Delving into the history, current debates and recent research on each topic, this book covers everything from classical sociologies and traditional subjects such as class, families, and religion, through to cutting-edge areas like AI, climate change and social media, and the interconnectedness of modern global society.
In this second edition you will encounter:
Brand new chapters on media, cities, disability, sexuality and nationalism
- Global Sociology’ boxes in each chapter taking you through cases from around the world
- An applied approach with a section on ‘What Is Sociology Useful For’ and ‘Hear from the Expert’ boxes throughout
- Reflexive activities and revision questions to help you think critically about sociology in practice
This definitive text is perfect for first-year sociology undergraduates and anyone studying sociology at university or college level.
This innovative textbook introduces you to the key theories, themes, and concepts in the discipline of sociology. Delving into the history, current debates and recent research on each topic, this book covers everything from classical sociologies and traditional subjects such as class, families, and religion, through to cutting-edge areas like AI, climate change and social media, and the interconnectedness of modern global society.
In this second edition you will encounter:
Brand new chapters on media, cities, disability, sexuality and nationalism
- Global Sociology’ boxes in each chapter taking you through cases from around the world
- An applied approach with a section on ‘What Is Sociology Useful For’ and ‘Hear from the Expert’ boxes throughout
- Reflexive activities and revision questions to help you think critically about sociology in practice
This definitive text is perfect for first-year sociology undergraduates and anyone studying sociology at university or college level.
Chapter 1: Approaching Sociology
Chapter 2: What is Society
Chapter 3: Global Sociology and Our Interconnected World
Chapter 4: Classical Sociologies
Chapter 5: Contemporary Sociologies
Chapter 6: Public Sociology
Chapter 7: Class
Chapter 8: Gender
Chapter 9: Sexuality
Chapter 10: Race
Chapter 11: Age
Chapter 12: Disability and Neurodiversity
Chapter 13: Families and Households
Chapter 14: Work
Chapter 15: Health
Chapter 16: Education
Chapter 17: Religion
Chapter 18: Crime and Deviance
Chapter 19: Cultures & Consumption
Chapter 20: Digital Sociologies
Chapter 21: Media and Sociology
Chapter 22: War and Political Violence
Chapter 23: Nationalism and National Identity
Chapter 24: Social Movements
Chapter 25: Migrations
Chapter 26: Climate Change and the Environment
Chapter 27: Science and Technology
Chapter 28: Living in the City
Chapter 29: Using Sociology