The entire sociology in view. The comprehensive "Joas and Mau" is the extensive textbook of sociology. It not only emphasizes solid subject knowledge but also good didactics. Leading representatives of the field provide an easily understandable overview of the history, methods, and subject areas of sociology while simultaneously offering an introduction to the latest state of knowledge. Each of the 26 chapters is complemented by illustrations, graphics, and tables, and concludes with a summary, review questions, and a glossary. First published in 2001, this textbook has become a successful standard work at German-speaking universities. For this fully updated and expanded 4th edition, Steffen Mau has been brought on as a co-editor. New features include chapters on "Digitalization" and "Social Policy," an additional chapter on social science methods, a guide to academic work, and a website with online materials as support and inspiration for teaching. This textbook thus provides tailored introductions for BA and minor subject students into the most important areas of sociology. It also offers instructors a wealth of material for planning their courses. Content: Knowledge of Society 1. The Sociological Perspective (Hans Joas) 2. Quantitative Social Research (Thomas Hinz) 3. Qualitative Social Research (Udo Kelle) The Individual and Society 4. Culture (Karl-Siegbert Rehberg & Stephan Moebius) 5. Interaction, Institution, and Society (Ansgar Weymann) 6. Socialization (Dieter Geulen, Hermann Veith) 7. The Life Course (Walter R. Heinz & Reinhold Sackmann) 8. Deviance and Crime (Fritz Sack) Difference and Inequality 9. Groups and Organizations (Uwe Schimank) 10. Social Inequality and Social Structure (Steffen Mau & Roland Verwiebe) 11. Ethnicity, Nation, Race (Christian).