Sale: Buy 2 Get 1 Free on all preloved items, code B2G1F   Ends 12/7/26 11:59PM SGT
Free delivery on all orders above $30
Get 10% off all year round! Join Thryft Club
Get 10% off all year round and $10 off your next order! Join Thryft Club

Sociology Books

Explore the depths of human society and social behaviour in our extensive Sociology section. From theories and structures, to issues of globalisation and inequality, our selection offers insightful reads for both casual learners and seasoned sociologists. Delve into pivotal works that examine the narratives shaping our societies today.

92 Results

Switch between grid and list views for a better book browsing experience!

92 Results

No results

Superstitions - Thryft
Peter Haining | Treasure House

Superstitions

Regular price $8.68 $3.90 55% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.0

Regular price $8.68 $3.90 55% off

Unit price
per

If you're intrigued by the quirks of human belief and enjoy delving into the peculiar traditions that have shaped cultures around the globe, Peter Haining's "Superstitions" will provide you with a treasure trove of fascinating rituals and myths. It's a charming read that entertains as much as it informs, perfect for those who find pleasure in the strange and the historical.
True Singapore Ghost Stories Book 19
Russell Lee | Angsana Books

True Singapore Ghost Stories Book 19

$7.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 2.75

$7.90

Unit price
per

This book is perfect for those who enjoy spine-chilling stories that are rooted in a specific cultural context. True Singapore Ghost Stories Book 19 offers a unique perspective on supernatural encounters and explores the rich folklore of Singapore. With each story carefully documented and narrated, readers will be enthralled by the mysterious and eerie atmosphere that lingers throughout the book. Get ready to embark on a thrilling journey into Singapore's haunted history.
Why Asians Are Less Creative Than Westerners
Ng Aik-Kwang, Aik Kwang Ng  | Prentice Hall

Why Asians Are Less Creative Than Westerners

Regular price $7.90 $4.90 38% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.76

Regular price $7.90 $4.90 38% off

Unit price
per

If you're fascinated by the nuances of culture and how it shapes innovation, this book could be quite engaging. It delves into historical achievements and cultural differences to propose why creativity might flourish differently in various parts of the world. Plus, it attempts to be more than just an academic exploration by offering tips on fostering creativity, which could be practical for your day-to-day life.
Working the Night Shift - Women in India’s Call Center Industry - Thryft
Reena Patel | Orient Blackswan

Working the Night Shift - Women in India’s Call Center Industry

Regular price $9.90 $3.90 61% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.46

Regular price $9.90 $3.90 61% off

Unit price
per

If you're intrigued by the intersection of culture, gender, and economics, "Working the Night Shift" offers a compelling look at how globalization is reshaping the lives of Indian women. It's a deep dive into the personal stories behind a booming industry, exploring the societal shifts and the new identity challenges these women face. It’s a relevant read for those interested in understanding the complex dynamics of modern, global workplaces and the evolving roles of women within them.
A Reverse Index of Manchu - Thryft

A Reverse Index of Manchu

Regular price $7.90 $3.90 51% off

Unit price
per

Regular price $7.90 $3.90 51% off

Unit price
per

82% off est. retail
This book would be a valuable resource for researchers studying the Manchu language, providing a reverse index to aid in their research. It stands out for its comprehensiveness and level of detail.
Wrapping Culture: Politeness, Presentation and Power in Japan and Other Societies

$53.90

Unit price
per

78% off est. retail
If you've ever marveled at the intricacies of cultural expression or pondered why societies do things a certain way, "Wrapping Culture" could illuminate those corners of human behavior for you. Joy Hendry thoughtfully explores how different cultures communicate through layers of symbolism, from the physical act of gift-wrapping to complex social customs. It's a fascinating deep dive into intercultural communication that might just change the way you perceive and interact with the world around you.
Nicknames: Their Origins and Social Consequences - Social Worlds of Childhood

Regular price $9.90 $5.90 40% off

Unit price
per

If you're fascinated by the quirky names we give each other and how they stick, "Nicknames: Their Origins and Social Consequences" delves into this slice of social interaction with scholarly insight. Reading it, you'll gain a deeper understanding of what your own nickname might say about your place in the social world.
Moro East
Samuel Clark, Samantha Clark  | Ebury Press

Moro East

Regular price $26.90 $21.90 19% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.36

Regular price $26.90 $21.90 19% off

Unit price
per

"Moro East" might just inspire your next kitchen adventure with its unique blend of Spanish and Muslim Mediterranean flavors, straight from the bustling energy of an East End allotment. The Clarks have woven the vibrant community spirit into every recipe, offering a culinary experience that feels both personal and expansive. If you're looking to refresh your palate with unpretentious, bold flavors amidst tales of communal joy, this could be your perfect cookbook companion.
The Dancing Girls of Lahore: Selling Love and Saving Dreams in Pakistan's Pleasure District

$11.90

Unit price
per

This is the kind of nonfiction that reads with the emotional pull of a novel, drawing you deep into a hidden world most people never truly see. Louise Brown writes with remarkable restraint and compassion, which makes Maha and her daughters feel heartbreakingly real rather than sensationalized. If you’re drawn to stories about women, survival, and the weight of tradition, this one lingers long after the final page.
How Societies Work: Class, Power, and Change

$11.90

Unit price
per

This is a strong pick if you want sociology to feel connected to real life rather than abstract theory. It helps you make sense of inequality, protest, economic crisis, and changing global power in a way that feels clear and grounded. Readers who like big-picture thinking often appreciate how it ties social structures back to everyday experience.
Potent Landscapes: Place and Mobility in Eastern Indonesia
Catherine Allerton | University Of Hawaii Press

Potent Landscapes: Place and Mobility in Eastern Indonesia

Regular price $15.90 $9.90 38% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.5

Regular price $15.90 $9.90 38% off

Unit price
per

If you're someone intrigued by the intricate ways in which landscapes shape human life, "Potent Landscapes" offers an enlightening perspective. It delves into the deep bond between the Manggarai people of Indonesia and their surroundings, revealing how geography can influence our needs and emotions. Rich in cultural details, this book is a window into understanding how place and identity are intimately connected.
Out of Eden: The Peopling of the World
Stephen Oppenheimer | Robinson Publishing

Out of Eden: The Peopling of the World

Regular price $10.90 $6.90 37% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.0

Regular price $10.90 $6.90 37% off

Unit price
per

71% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the thought of all humans sharing a single ancestral mother and have an interest in how we spread across the globe, "Out of Eden" is a book you shouldn't miss. Oppenheimer expertly uses genetics to unfold our migratory history, offering insights that challenge conventional wisdom. It's like a journey back in time, piecing together the great puzzle of our past.
Conserving Domesticity - Thryft

Conserving Domesticity

Regular price $7.90 $4.90 38% off

Unit price
per

Regular price $7.90 $4.90 38% off

Unit price
per

88% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for someone interested in understanding the preservation of domestic spaces and how it intersects with the concept of home. Lilian Chee delves into the complexities of conserving houses, reflecting on the afterlife of these spaces. By examining the motives behind conservation and the purpose of domesticity, this book offers insights into the significance of preserving and understanding the histories embedded in our homes. It is a thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between architecture, identity, and memory.
Colonial and Post-Colonial Geographies of India

$14.90

Unit price
per

90% off est. retail
If you're looking to deepen your understanding of India beyond the typical historical account, "Colonial and Post-Colonial Geographies of India" is a compelling choice. The collection of essays from a diverse set of scholars will enrich your perspective on India's geographical history. It will challenge you to consider the spatial dimensions of the colonial and postcolonial narratives that have shaped the nation. Ideal for those involved in academia or anyone passionate about the interplay between geography, history, and societal development.
Tracing Silences: Towards an Anthropology of the Unspoken and Unspeakable

$90.90

Unit price
per

69% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the nuanced ways in which what is left unsaid shapes our lives and histories, "Tracing Silences" could enrich your perspective. It's not just about what we can hear but also about what we can't, and how those voids speak volumes about our societies. This book offers a deep dive into the anthropological and historical implications of silence, making it a thought-provoking read for those interested in the undercurrents of human interaction and communication.
The Trouble with Names : Forms of Address in Asia - Thryft
Hyacinth Gaudart | Snp Editions

The Trouble with Names : Forms of Address in Asia

Regular price $5.90 $3.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 5.0

Regular price $5.90 $3.90 34% off

Unit price
per

This book is a treasure trove for anyone seeking to understand the cultural intricacies involved in addressing others in Asia. With clear and concise explanations, Hyacinth Gaudart opens up a world of cultural knowledge that can help readers conduct themselves with grace and courtesy, regardless of where they are in Asia. Whether you are a tourist, student, or business professional, this book is an essential guide to avoiding social missteps and making lasting connections.
Uncle John's Bathroom Reader Jingle Bell Christmas

$6.90

Unit price
per

If you love immersing yourself in the holiday spirit with quirky facts and stories, Uncle John's Bathroom Reader Jingle Bell Christmas is up your alley. Picture yourself unwinding during the busy season with tales of Christmas curiosities that are both enlightening and chuckle-worthy. It's the perfect companion for those moments of escape, bringing joy and amusement with every page.
Songlines: The Power and Promise
Just Arrived

Songlines: The Power and Promise

$9.90

Unit price
per

$9.90

Unit price
per

This feels like a deeply thoughtful invitation to see knowledge differently, through living traditions rather than just books and databases. Readers who enjoy big ideas about culture, memory, and connection will likely find it both eye-opening and hopeful. It stands out because it does not just explain songlines as history, but shows them as a powerful, evolving way of understanding the world now.
The Children's Culture Reader
Henry Jenkins | Nyu Press

The Children's Culture Reader

$18.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$18.90

Unit price
per

75% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by how society shapes and is shaped by its youngest members, "The Children's Culture Reader" is a thought-provoking anthology that commands attention. It delves into the complexity of childhood and how children actively participate in cultural formation. This book is perfect for you if you appreciate interdisciplinary insights and are keen to understand the deeper connections between children's experiences and broader social trends.
Behind the Veil of Vice: The Business and Culture of Sex in the Middle East

Regular price $11.90 $7.90 34% off

Unit price
per

73% off est. retail
This book is for those looking to understand the complexities of Middle Eastern society beyond the headlines. Bradley's exploration is both daring and enlightening, pulling back the curtain on a taboo subject to reveal a cultural landscape that many readers may find surprising and thought-provoking. It's a deep dive into a world that is rarely discussed openly, offering valuable insights into the social fabric of these regions.
Vientiane: Transformations of a Lao Landscape

$70.90

Unit price
per

If you're intrigued by cities with layers of untold stories, "Vientiane: Transformations of a Lao landscape" offers a rare glimpse into the dynamic past and present of Laos' capital. It's an enlightening deep dive for anyone looking to understand the interplay between a city's architecture, its geopolitical significance, and the cultural identity of its people, far beyond the usual rural depictions of Laos. This book invites readers to explore urban narratives often left on the margins.
Folk and Fairy Tales
Martin Hallett, Barbara Karasek  | Broadview Press

Folk and Fairy Tales

$9.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.07

$9.90

Unit price
per

This is a great pick if you want more than just charming tales and really want to see how folklore works across cultures and time. It brings together classic stories, different versions, and smart critical essays in a way that feels both academic and genuinely fascinating. Readers who enjoy noticing patterns, symbols, and how stories evolve will find it especially rewarding.
Understanding the Ethnic Chinese in Southeast Asia

$11.90

Unit price
per

If you're interested in the nuanced tapestry of culture and identity, "Understanding the Ethnic Chinese in Southeast Asia" could offer a fresh perspective. The book stands out with in-depth examination and broad context—it could change the way you view the interplay between ethnicity, national identity, and the forces of globalization in a significant part of the world.
Jokes, Riddles & Proverbs From Asia & The Pacific
Various

Jokes, Riddles & Proverbs From Asia & The Pacific

$3.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$3.90

Unit price
per

If you're curious about the wit and wisdom that various Asian and Pacific cultures have to offer, this compilation is a delightful treasure trove. It's not just for laughs; it's an educational journey through folklore and time-honored sayings. You'll find yourself both entertained and enlightened as you flip through the pages and discover proverbs that have guided generations.
Housing in Southeast Asian Capital Cities
Sold out

$11.90

Unit price
per

If you're fascinated by urban development and the complexities of city life in the dynamic context of Southeast Asia, "Housing in Southeast Asian Capital Cities" could be a thought-provoking read. It delves into the heart of critical issues affecting burgeoning metropolises, offering a blend of scholarly insight and real-world case studies that could widen your understanding of urban planning struggles and progress in this vibrant region.
Market Society: Markets and Modern Social Theory
Sold out

$13.90

Unit price
per

60% off est. retail
If you're keen on understanding how markets shape and are shaped by society, "Market Society" could be the book for you. It's not just about economics; it's a broader take on how markets integrate with social actions and relationships. Plus, it's designed to be accessible, so you don't need to be an academic to digest its insights about the intersection of markets with culture and politics.
If you're fascinated by the transformation of personal and social boundaries during a period of explosive change, 'A History of Private Life. 4 From the Fires of Revolution to the Great War' beckons you. Journey through a century’s milestones in individuality, domestic norms, and the reshaping of Western existence, laid out in rich detail by expert historians. This book would be like a time machine for someone who wants to understand the roots of contemporary private life and its interplay with public affairs right before the world-altering impact of the Great War.
Music and Gender: Perspectives from the Mediterranean
Sold out

$18.90

Unit price
per

72% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by how culture shapes art, "Music and Gender" offers a compelling dive into the Mediterranean's musical tapestry through the lens of gender studies. It's not just about notes and rhythms; it's a journey into how music reflects, challenges, and shapes identities, bringing a scholarly but accessible exploration of sociology and ethnomusicology to your fingertips. This book could broaden your perspective on the power of music within different societies.
Endangered Peoples
Sold out
Art Davidson | Sierra Club

Endangered Peoples

$9.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$9.90

Unit price
per

If you feel a profound respect for indigenous cultures and want to understand their struggles against overwhelming odds, "Endangered Peoples" could resonate deeply with you. This book provides an intimate look at the lives, challenges, and resilience of native communities, paired with powerful photography that brings the narrative to life. It's not just a read, it's an emotional journey that acknowledges the human faces behind urgent global issues.
History of the World in 100 Modern Objects: Middle-Class Stuff (and Nonsense)
Sold out

$8.90

Unit price
per

77% off est. retail
If the quirks and trappings of modern middle-class life fascinate you, "History of the World in 100 Modern Objects" is your cup of tea. Hornak's columns are like peering through a series of windows into everyday moments that are at once humorous and identifiable. It's cultural commentary wrapped in charm, perfectly complemented by Joyce's vibrant illustrations—a light-hearted read that's bound to elicit knowing nods and chuckles.
Other Tribes, Other Scribes: Symbolic Anthropology in the Comparative Study of Cultures, Histories, Religions and Texts
Sold out

Regular price $17.90 $14.90 17% off

Unit price
per

72% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by how culture shapes our understanding of the world, "Other Tribes, Other Scribes" is a treasure trove. James A. Boon masterfully traces the lineage of thought behind interpreting symbolic behavior across societies. This book isn't just an academic read; it's an intellectual journey connecting anthropology, literature, and history, offering a fascinating collage of perspectives. Give it a read and see how the rich tapestry of human culture is pieced together by the minds that have studied it.
Tasting Food, Tasting Freedom: Excursions into Eating, Power, and the Past
Sold out
Sidney W. Mintz | Beacon Press

Tasting Food, Tasting Freedom: Excursions into Eating, Power, and the Past

Regular price $13.90 $10.90 22% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.64

Regular price $13.90 $10.90 22% off

Unit price
per

70% off est. retail
If you're curious about the intersection of culture, power, and the food on your plate, "Tasting Food, Tasting Freedom" is a tour de force that delves into the deep meanings behind eating practices. Sidney Mintz gives you a scholarly yet accessible perspective on how food choices are intricately linked with history and economy, enriching your understanding of American culinary identity.
Sweetness and Power: The Place of Sugar in Modern History
Sold out

$8.26

Unit price
per

68% off est. retail
Diving into "Sweetness and Power" will unravel the surprising ways sugar has shaped our world, intertwining with complex issues like slavery and economic power. It's a fascinating lens through which to view history, offering a nuanced perspective on how a simple craving influenced social structures and dietary patterns. If you're looking to sweeten your historical knowledge with an unconventional story, this book's for you.
Food, Society, and Environment
Sold out

$8.90

Unit price
per

If you're curious about the intersection of our eating habits with societal shifts and environmental sustainability, "Food, Society, and Environment" might just feed your curiosity. It's not just a narrative of food through the ages - it's an insightful dissection of how our plates reflect and affect the world we live in, from social justice to ecological impacts. For anyone with a hunger for understanding the broader implications of what's on our forks, this book is a hearty meal for thought.
Time and the Other: How Anthropology Makes Its Object
Sold out

$9.90

Unit price
per

Johannes Fabian's "Time and the Other" would resonate with you if you're intrigued by the intricate ways in which the concept of time influences our understanding of culture and society. It's a thought-provoking read that delves into how anthropologists engage with their subjects, urging a critical look at the relationship between the observer and the observed. The book challenges conventional methodologies and will appeal to your desire for a deeper understanding of the human condition through the lens of time.
The Study of Culture
Sold out

$8.90

Unit price
per

If you're intrigued by how societies develop and the frameworks through which we understand human behavior, "The Study of Culture" by L.L. Langness is quite the intellection expedition. It’s a profound dive into the evolution of cultural studies, dissecting various schools of thought. Langness's examination cuts across time, contrasting classical and modern perspectives, surely enriching your grasp on cultural anthropology’s textured landscape.
Kinship, Gender, and the Cosmic World: Ethnographies of Birth Customs in Taiwan, the Philippines, and Indonesia
Sold out

Regular price $9.90 $7.90 20% off

Unit price
per

If you're intrigued by anthropology and the rich tapestry of Southeast Asian cultures, this collection will fascinate you. It's a window into how the deeply personal act of birth is celebrated and ritualized, revealing much about gender roles and cosmic beliefs in these societies. It's not just about the event of birth but a broader understanding of three diverse cultures interwoven by tradition.
The Means Of Naming - Thryft
Sold out

The Means Of Naming

$25.16

Unit price
per

$25.16

Unit price
per

68% off est. retail

Names are never given accidentally; they are chosen and bestowed according to rules that reflect fundamental features of the society and culture concerned. This is a study of the nature and history of naming practices in Western Europe.


Author: Stephen Wilson
Publisher: Routledge
Publication Date: 1998
Two Cheers for Anarchism : Six Easy Pieces on Autonomy, Dignity, and Meaningful Work and Play - Thryft
Sold out

$11.12

Unit price
per

71% off est. retail
Two Cheers for Anarchism could be a good read for someone looking to challenge traditional structures of hierarchy. Scott offers a unique perspective on everyday social and political interactions that inspire readers to consider constructive anarchism. The book celebrates the ingenuity and judgement of individuals exercising their creative and moral capacities. Readers will enjoy relatable anecdotes and examples that touch on a wide range of subjects, including globalization, assembly-line production, and historical explanation.
The Fall of Public Man - Thryft
Sold out
Richard Sennett | Gardners Books

The Fall of Public Man

Regular price $7.53 $5.27 30% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.15

Regular price $7.53 $5.27 30% off

Unit price
per

78% off est. retail
Recommendation: The Fall of Public Man is a thought-provoking analysis of the decline in public life and political involvement in recent decades. Richard Sennett's erudition and historical imagination brilliantly describe the growing imbalance between private and public experience in modern society. This book provides a fascinating perspective on the relationship between public life and the cult of the individual, and argues for a more formal public culture to reconnect with our communities.
Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Survive
Sold out

$13.90

Unit price
per

"Collapse" isn't just about the past; it's a thoughtful exploration of the patterns that have led societies to their zenith and their nadir. You'll be taken on a global tour of history, learning from the lessons etched in the remains of once-great civilizations. As you delve into these narratives, you may find yourself pondering the sustainability of our own society. It's a compelling read for those who enjoy history with a side of existential inquiry.
Albion's Seed : Four British Folkways in America - Thryft
Sold out
David Hackett Fischer | Oxford University Press

Albion's Seed : Four British Folkways in America

Regular price $13.10 $7.86 40% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.36

Regular price $13.10 $7.86 40% off

Unit price
per

97% off est. retail
Albion's Seed is a great read for a history enthusiast, particularly those interested in the formation of America's regional cultures. Fischer's work effectively outlines the folkways and cultural differences between early British settlers in America, and how they have persisted to varying degrees in different areas of the country. This book is a valuable resource for understanding American cultural history, and would be a particularly good fit for those studying the social sciences or anyone with a keen interest in American regionalism.

Understanding Social Dynamics

At Thryft, our Sociology section serves as a gateway to understanding complex social structures and behaviours. We offer a wide range of titles covering key sociological theories, modern societal challenges, by influential thinkers. Sociology engages with real world issues, functioning as a lens to view personal and collective social identities. Whether you’re pursuing personal growth or specific academic interests, our collection has something for everyone. Connect with these enlightening works today.