its predecessor in its thematic coherence, clarity of exposition and analytical depth. It is carefully structured to cover all the main substantive topics studied at an introductory level within a framework that engages with exciting contemporary debates about modernity, globalisation and social identity.Key features of the new edition include:- a completely new chapter on the media- extended coverage of social divisions to include disability, youth and old age as well as class, gender and race- clearer and more compact treatment of social theory, incorporating discussion of work by such contemporary theorists as Habermas, Giddens and Beck- an even stronger blend of theoretical, empirical and illustrative material, consolidating the critical and applied approach that is one of the text's most well-liked defining featuresWith outstanding presentation and pedagogical support for the student and hard-pressed lecturer alike, the text includes:- an Instructor's Resource Pack, complete with powerpoint slides, available on the Palgrave website (or in hardcopy for adopters of the textbook, by written request)- a detailed and extensive glossary - practically a 'mini dictionary' of sociology in its own right and an ideal reference tool- chapter-specific further reading lists, annotated for further guidance and support- questions to think about, which can be used as the basis for essays, class discussion and further study- pictures, figures, graphs and tables.

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