All the big ideas, simply explained - an innovative and accessible guide to sociology. Part of the popular Big Ideas series, The Sociology Book introduces you to the subject that tells you all about what society is and what makes it tick. With over 80 ideas from the world's most renowned sociologists, covering topics as diverse as issues of equality, diversity, identity, and human rights; the effects of globalization; the role of institutions; and the rise of urban living in modern society, this book details the key concepts of sociological thought. Discover all the big sociological ideas with quirky graphics, pithy quotes, and step-by-step mind maps. You'll be brought up to date on sociological ideas from Jeffrey Alexander to Sharon Zukin, with easy-to-navigate step-by-step summaries that explain each idea in a nutshell. Plus, biographies of key sociologists from around the world.