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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.

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Journeys Through Southeast Asia: Ceritalah 2
Karim Raslan | Times Book International

Journeys Through Southeast Asia: Ceritalah 2

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.54

$3.90

As someone fascinated by the diversity and complexity of Southeast Asia, you'll find Karim Raslan's "Journeys through Southeast Asia: Ceritalah 2" immensely enlightening. Raslan's penchant for keen observation and his vivid storytelling bring out the color and contrasts of the region. It's not just a travelogue but a deeper exploration of the communities, politics, and cultures that make up this vibrant part of the world. Whether it's the busy streets of Rangoon or the quiet musings of local artists, this book promises to take you on a journey that's as educational as it is entertaining.
Good to Eat: Riddles of Food and Culture
Marvin Harris | Waveland Pr Inc

Good to Eat: Riddles of Food and Culture

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$8.26

Imagine you're a detective for the world's various eating habits, where even a distaste for spinach becomes a clue. "Good to Eat" offers an exciting journey through the dynamics of what we eat and why, catering to anyone intrigued by the cultural reasons behind their dinner plate. If you savor understanding the deeper societal influences on food, this read will satisfy your hunger for knowledge.
Japan in Your Pocket 17: Japanese Family & Culture
Japan Travel Bureau | Books Nippan

Japan in Your Pocket 17: Japanese Family & Culture

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.81

$9.90

If you're intrigued by the intricacies of Japan's social fabric, this book sheds light on the intimate aspects of Japanese family life and culture. It's ideal for those planning to visit Japan or simply interested in understanding the societal norms that shape Japanese interactions. A deep dive that's both educational and enriching.
The Dyirbal Language of North Queensland
R.M.W. Dixon | Cambridge University Press

The Dyirbal Language of North Queensland

$23.90 $15.90 33% off

Goodreads rating: 4.5

$23.90 $15.90 33% off

78% off est. retail
Learning about the Dyirbal language is like unearthing a hidden cultural treasure, providing an intimate glimpse into the ancient wisdom and beauty of the indigenous tribes of North Queensland. It's not just a linguistic journey, but a sobering look at the effects of colonization, viewed through the lens of language and cultural survival. You'll find yourself moved by the resilience and dignity of the people who speak it.
Origins of Chinese People and Customs (Spanish Edition) - Thryft
Li Xiaoxiang | Asiapac

Origins of Chinese People and Customs (Spanish Edition)

$4.85

Goodreads rating: 3.4

$4.85

From early man through modern weddings, this survey of the way Chinese people live is a fascinating exploration of popular customs. With a good discussion of children s name and customs of bringing up children.
The Trouble with Names : Forms of Address in Asia - Thryft
Hyacinth Gaudart | Snp Editions

The Trouble with Names : Forms of Address in Asia

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

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.
Golden Dragon and Purple Phoenix: The Chinese and Their Multi-Ethnic Descendants in Southeast Asia
Lee Khoon Choy | World Scientific Publishing Company Pte. Ltd.

Golden Dragon and Purple Phoenix: The Chinese and Their Multi-Ethnic Descendants in Southeast Asia

$92.90 $85.14 8% off

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$92.90 $85.14 8% off

77% off est. retail
"Golden Dragon and Purple Phoenix" isn't just a historical account; it's a deep dive into the rich tapestry of multi-ethnic descendants in Southeast Asia, with personal narratives that may resonate with your interest in diverse cultures and history. Lee Khoon Choy’s firsthand experiences as a politician, diplomat, and journalist lend authenticity to each story. This book is a window into how Chinese immigrants and their progeny have shaped, and been shaped by, the lands they inhabit.
Colonial and Post-Colonial Geographies of India
Stuart Corbridge, M. Satish Kumar, Saraswati Raju  | Sage Publications Pvt. Ltd

Colonial and Post-Colonial Geographies of India

$14.90

Goodreads rating: 2.0

$14.90

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.
Out of Eden: The Peopling of the World
Stephen Oppenheimer | Robinson Publishing

Out of Eden: The Peopling of the World

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$9.90

58% 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.
Fields, Forest, and Family: Women's Work and Power in Rural Laos
Carol J. Ireson | Perseus

Fields, Forest, and Family: Women's Work and Power in Rural Laos

$23.90 $18.90 21% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$23.90 $18.90 21% off

74% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the intersection of culture, politics, and gender, "Fields, Forest, And Family" offers an eye-opening journey. Carol Ireson's decade-long research unpacks the post-war shifts in Laos, illustrating the profound impact on the livelihoods and autonomy of rural women. It's a thoughtful exploration of resilience and adaptation that could alter your understanding of women's empowerment in developing contexts.
Language and Solitude: Wittgenstein, Malinowski and the Habsburg Dilemma
David Gellner, Ernest Gellner, Steven Lukes  | Cambridge University Press

Language and Solitude: Wittgenstein, Malinowski and the Habsburg Dilemma

$27.90

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$27.90

58% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the intellectual legacies shaped by historical contexts, Gellner's "Language and Solitude" offers a compelling narrative. It might be an enriching read for you, as it delves into how the Habsburg Empire's cultural milieu influenced two prominent thinkers' views on language and society. This synthesis of philosophy and anthropology could broaden your understanding of ideas that transcend their time and place.
British Cultural Identities - Thryft

British Cultural Identities

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.46

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

90% off est. retail
British Cultural Identities is a must-read for those who want to understand the complexities of British cultural identities. With its emphasis on visual media and historical context, the book offers a comprehensive view of traditional and contemporary Britain. The end-of-chapter questions and exercises enable readers to assess their understanding of the concepts discussed, making it an ideal resource for students.
Behind the Veil of Vice: The Business and Culture of Sex in the Middle East
John R. Bradley | St. Martin's Griffin

Behind the Veil of Vice: The Business and Culture of Sex in the Middle East

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.29

$11.90

59% 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.
Australian Language and Culture : No Worries! - Thryft

Australian Language and Culture : No Worries!

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

72% off est. retail
This book is an absolute must-read for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Australian culture. From slang and jargon to humorous expressions, it covers all aspects of the unique language spoken down under. Whether you're planning a trip to Australia or just fascinated by their way of speaking, this comprehensive guide will have you speaking like a local in no time. It even includes a section on Aboriginal terminology, making it a truly inclusive resource. Get ready to embrace all things Aussie with this essential slang guide!
The Children's Culture Reader
Henry Jenkins | Nyu Press

The Children's Culture Reader

$18.90

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$18.90

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.
Mythology: Selected Readings
Pierre Maranda | Penguin Books

Mythology: Selected Readings

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 2.8

$8.90

If you're fascinated by the stories that have shaped cultures across the world, "Mythology: Selected Readings" is a gem waiting to be discovered. It's like a window into the collective psyche of societies, examining the myths that have been the bedrock of social norms and personal identity. It's not just a book; it's a journey through time and imagination, offering insight into human nature and our shared history.
The Guinness Encyclopedia of Signs & Symbols
John Foley | Guinness World Records Ltd

The Guinness Encyclopedia of Signs & Symbols

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.67

$11.90

If you're intrigued by the stories symbols tell us and their significance across different cultures, "The Guinness Encyclopedia of Signs & Symbols" is an enlightening journey you shouldn't miss. It's a treasure trove of information that deciphers the language of symbols, which is perfect for anyone with a curiosity for history, art, or anthropology.
Heritage Management in Australia and New Zealand: The Human Dimension
Colin Michael Hall | Oup Australia And New Zealand

Heritage Management in Australia and New Zealand: The Human Dimension

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90

If you're fascinated by the delicate dance between preserving cultural heritage and fostering sustainable tourism in Australasia, "Heritage Management in Australia and New Zealand: The Human Dimension" is a compelling read. It delves into the practicalities of managing national landmarks, from Tasmania's wild beauty to Uluru's spiritual majesty, with a focus on the community's values and the visitor experience. This book could widen your understanding of the challenges and triumphs in heritage conservation.
Figures of Southeast Asian Modernity
Johan Lindquist, Joshua Barker, Erik Harms  | University Of Hawaii Press

Figures of Southeast Asian Modernity

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.33

$8.90

If you're intrigued by the social tapestry of Southeast Asia, "Figures of Southeast Asian Modernity" is a window into the heart of its diverse cultures. Through vivid portraits, this ethnographic collection captures the region's dynamism, offering you an authentic perspective often missing in traditional academic texts. It's a thoughtful exploration that feels personal and real, like having a series of intimate conversations with the very fabric of modern Southeast Asia.
Uncle John's Bathroom Reader Jingle Bell Christmas
Just Arrived
Bathroom Readers' Institute | Portable Press

Uncle John's Bathroom Reader Jingle Bell Christmas

$6.90

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$6.90

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.
Our Place in Time: Exploring Heritage and Memory in Singapore
Singapore Heritage Society | Singapore Heritage Society

Our Place in Time: Exploring Heritage and Memory in Singapore

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90

If you're drawn to Singapore's multifaceted history, you'll find "Our Place in Time" to be a delightful journey. It's a thoughtful exploration of how the past shapes collective memory and identity in Singapore, penned by the Singapore Heritage Society. This book would be an insightful read for anyone curious about cultural preservation and the stories that form the backbone of a nation's heritage.
The History of White People
Just Arrived
Nell Irvin Painter | W. W. Norton & Company

The History of White People

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.07

$8.90

82% off est. retail
Dive into "The History of White People" for a profound exploration beyond the often-frontlined stories of racial minorities. Nell Irvin Painter's work challenges readers to confront the socio-historical constructs of race and whiteness, making it a crucial read for anyone interested in understanding the deep-seated roots and impacts of racial concepts on Western civilization. It's a history buff's treasure and a thought-provoker for the socially conscious.
Housing in Southeast Asian Capital Cities
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Ooi Giok Ling | Institute Of Southeast Asian S

Housing in Southeast Asian Capital Cities

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.5

$11.90

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
Don Slater, Fran Tonkiss  | Polity

Market Society: Markets and Modern Social Theory

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$13.90

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.
A History of Private Life: From the Fires of Revolution to the Great War
Sold out
Georges Duby, Philippe Ariès  | Belknap Press: An Imprint Of Harvard University Press

A History of Private Life: From the Fires of Revolution to the Great War

$18.90

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$18.90

74% off est. retail
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
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Tullia Magrini | University Of Chicago Press

Music and Gender: Perspectives from the Mediterranean

$18.90

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$18.90

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

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$9.90

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
Francesca Hornak | Portico

History of the World in 100 Modern Objects: Middle-Class Stuff (and Nonsense)

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$8.90

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
James A. Boon | Cambridge University Press

Other Tribes, Other Scribes: Symbolic Anthropology in the Comparative Study of Cultures, Histories, Religions and Texts

$17.90 $14.90 17% off

Goodreads rating: 3.25

$17.90 $14.90 17% off

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

$13.90 $10.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.64

$13.90 $10.90 22% off

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
Sidney W. Mintz | Penguin Books

Sweetness and Power: The Place of Sugar in Modern History

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.78

$8.26

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
Charles L. Harper, Bryan F. Lebeau  | Prentice Hall

Food, Society, and Environment

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$8.90

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
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Johannes Fabian | Columbia University Press 1983.

Time and the Other: How Anthropology Makes Its Object

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$9.90

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
L.L. Langness | Chandler & Sharp Publishers, Inc.

The Study of Culture

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$8.90

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
Katsuhiko (ed) Yamaji | Smc Pub

Kinship, Gender, and the Cosmic World: Ethnographies of Birth Customs in Taiwan, the Philippines, and Indonesia

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

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
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The Means Of Naming

$25.16

$25.16

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
James C. Scott | Princeton University Press

Two Cheers for Anarchism : Six Easy Pieces on Autonomy, Dignity, and Meaningful Work and Play

$11.12

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$11.12

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

$7.53 $5.27 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$7.53 $5.27 30% off

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
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Jared Diamond | Penguin Books

Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Survive

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$13.90

"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
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David Hackett Fischer | Oxford University Press

Albion's Seed : Four British Folkways in America

$13.10 $7.86 40% off

Goodreads rating: 4.36

$13.10 $7.86 40% off

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.