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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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True Singapore Ghost Stories Book 19
Russell Lee | Angsana Books

True Singapore Ghost Stories Book 19

$7.90

Goodreads rating: 2.75

$7.90

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

$7.90 $4.90 38% off

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$7.90 $4.90 38% off

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.
Wrapping Culture: Politeness, Presentation and Power in Japan and Other Societies
Joy Hendry | Clarendon Press

Wrapping Culture: Politeness, Presentation and Power in Japan and Other Societies

$53.90

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$53.90

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.
The Dancing Girls of Lahore: Selling Love and Saving Dreams in Pakistan's Pleasure District
Louise Brown | Harper Perennial

The Dancing Girls of Lahore: Selling Love and Saving Dreams in Pakistan's Pleasure District

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$11.90

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.
Potent Landscapes: Place and Mobility in Eastern Indonesia
Catherine Allerton | University Of Hawaii Press

Potent Landscapes: Place and Mobility in Eastern Indonesia

$15.90 $9.90 38% off

Goodreads rating: 4.5

$15.90 $9.90 38% off

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.
China and Historical Capitalism: Genealogies of Sinological Knowledge - Thryft
Timothy Brook, Gregory Blue  | Cambridge University Press

China and Historical Capitalism: Genealogies of Sinological Knowledge

$57.90 $15.90 73% off

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$57.90 $15.90 73% off

90% off est. retail
If you've ever wondered how views of economic history can be colored by the lens through which they're examined, "China and Historical Capitalism" might intrigue you. This book digs into how Western interpretations of capitalism have overshadowed other global narratives. It's a thoughtful read for anyone interested in understanding the complex intersection between cultural perception and historical economic systems, and particularly relevant if you're interested in the dynamics of East-West relations in the context of capitalist discourse.
Assessing China's Power
Jae Ho Chung | Palgrave Macmillan

Assessing China's Power

$32.90 $19.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$32.90 $19.90 40% off

74% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by international relations and the shifting dynamics of global power, this book provides a noteworthy analysis that could broaden your understanding. It's particularly compelling if you're interested in objective comparisons and educated forecasts that might challenge or confirm your preconceptions about East-West relations and where they could be headed.
The Other Tongue: English Across Cultures
Braj B. Kachru | Pergamon Press

The Other Tongue: English Across Cultures

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

If you're fascinated by the reach and adaptation of English across the world, "The Other Tongue" could be an eye-opener. Braj B. Kachru's keen analysis provides valuable insights into how English functions in various cultures. It's an enlightening exploration that could shift the way you perceive language within global communication.
The Fate of Hong Kong - Thryft
V.C. Andrews | Simon & Schuster

The Fate of Hong Kong

$8.68 $3.90 55% off

Goodreads rating: 3.29

$8.68 $3.90 55% off

You'd be engrossed by Gerald Segal's "The Fate of Hong Kong" if the interplay of politics, economics, and destiny intrigues you. Published prior to the 1997 handover, it captures the anxieties and predictions of the time, offering a window into the past's future. It's a compelling read for those interested in historical geopolitical analysis and the factors that shape a city's destiny.
China Wakes: The Struggle for the Soul of a Rising Power - Thryft
Nicholas D. Kristof, Sheryl WuDunn  | Times Books/random House

China Wakes: The Struggle for the Soul of a Rising Power

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.98

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

90% off est. retail
If you’re intrigued by the evolution of global powers, “China Wakes” offers a deep dive into the complexities of China's ascension. The reporters take you through the multifaceted societal changes with a level of detail that's personal yet panoramic. It's as eye-opening as it is enlightening, providing a snapshot of a pivotal time in China’s history. This book may change the way you see China and its place in the world.
亞半球大國崛起 - 亞洲強權再起的衝擊與挑戰

亞半球大國崛起 - 亞洲強權再起的衝擊與挑戰

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

If you're intrigued by global shifts in power and enjoy understanding how Asia's ascent could reshape international politics, this book by Kishore Mahbubani offers a compelling narrative. It's a seasoned diplomat's take on the implications of a rising Asia for the world, making it a thought-provoking read for those interested in the future of global relations.
China Against the Tides - Thryft
Marc Blecher | Continuum

China Against the Tides

$36.90 $9.90 73% off

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$36.90 $9.90 73% off

89% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by China's unique political and economic journey, especially when set against the context of other developing countries and historical socialist regimes, this book is for you. Marc Blecher skillfully intertwines theories from various social sciences to paint a comprehensive picture of China's development from imperial times to the modern day, including the challenges of globalization and reform. It's an insightful read that offers a deep understanding of China's place in the world and its internal mechanisms.
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.
Our Lives to Live: Putting a Woman's Face to Change in Singapore
Margaret Thomas, Kanwaljit Soin  | Wspc

Our Lives to Live: Putting a Woman's Face to Change in Singapore

$26.90 $18.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$26.90 $18.90 30% off

58% off est. retail
As someone interested in both history and gender studies, "Our Lives to Live" offers you a compelling look into how women have shaped modern Singapore. This collection, featuring voices from different generations and sectors, brings forward personal and academic narratives that are bound to enrich your understanding of women's roles in societal progress. The diverse experiences and achievements highlighted in this book not only celebrate female contributions but also emphasize ongoing challenges, making it a thought-provoking read that resonates with universal themes of change and empowerment.
China's Naval Operations in the South China Sea: Evaluating Legal, Strategic and Military Factors
Bruce A. Elleman | Renaissance Books

China's Naval Operations in the South China Sea: Evaluating Legal, Strategic and Military Factors

$60.90 $36.90 39% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$60.90 $36.90 39% off

77% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by international relations and maritime strategies, "China's Naval Operations in the South China Sea" is a deep dive into a complex and timely topic. It lays out the historical and geopolitical dynamics shaping this pivotal region, and if you're keen on understanding the strategic moves of major global players, this book will give you a detailed examination of China's advancing naval ambitions and how they interplay with the interests of neighboring countries and the United States.
Asia Pacific Its Role in the New World Disorder
Michael S. Dobbs-Higginson | Arrow Books Ltd

Asia Pacific Its Role in the New World Disorder

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.5

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

If you're curious about the Asia-Pacific region, especially in light of its growing role on the world stage, Michael Stewart Dobbs-Higginson's 'Asia Pacific: Its Role in the New World Disorder' could be enlightening. Published amid the dynamic changes of the 90s, this book offers a hybrid of business insights and cultural history that feels pertinent even today. It's a thought-provoking read for anyone interested in global politics or economics, with a specific focus on an ever-important part of the world.
Vientiane: Transformations of a Lao Landscape
William Logan, Marc Askew, Colin Long  | Routledge/taylor & Francis Group

Vientiane: Transformations of a Lao Landscape

$70.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$70.90

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.
Introduction to Sri Lanka - Thryft
unknown author | Hodder Headline Australia

Introduction to Sri Lanka

$10.86 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$10.86 $3.90 64% off

If your soul is itching for travel and understanding distant cultures, this book is a gentle guide into the rich tapestry of Sri Lanka's history, traditions, and landscapes. It's like having a wise local by your side, showing you why this island is such a gem in the Indian Ocean.
China : The Land, the Cities, the People, the Culture, the Present - Thryft
Derek Maitland | Bookthrift Co

China : The Land, the Cities, the People, the Culture, the Present

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

89% off est. retail
Incisive essays portray contemporary Chinese life and record the many social, political, and cultural changes that have taken place
Not Just Another Grandpa Story: People’s Association, 60 Years of Community Bonding
People’s Association | People’s Association

Not Just Another Grandpa Story: People’s Association, 60 Years of Community Bonding

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$10.90

This feels like a heartfelt walk through how neighbourhoods, friendships, and shared identity were built over decades. It would suit someone who enjoys Singapore history told through everyday people rather than distant facts. Readers would likely appreciate its nostalgic, grounded tone and the way it celebrates community bonding as something lived and felt.
Understanding the Ethnic Chinese in Southeast Asia
Leo Suryadinata | Institute Of Southeast Asian Studies,singapore

Understanding the Ethnic Chinese in Southeast Asia

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$11.90

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.
The Ties That Bind: In Search of the Modern Singapore Family
Association of Women for Action and Research | Aware

The Ties That Bind: In Search of the Modern Singapore Family

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$10.90

If you're fascinated by the evolution of family values amidst rapid modernization, "The Ties That Bind" could offer you a probing insight into how traditional roles and relationships adapt in contemporary Singapore. The cultural shifts and the balancing act between progress and heritage make for an enlightening read, especially if you're keen on understanding the intricate social fabric of modern Asian societies.
Jokes, Riddles & Proverbs From Asia & The Pacific
Various

Jokes, Riddles & Proverbs From Asia & The Pacific

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$3.90

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.
Postmodern Singapore
William Siew Wai Lim | Select Pub

Postmodern Singapore

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

This book would be of interest to readers looking for a critical analysis of Singapore's social, cultural, and political landscape. Shearman does a fantastic job of dissecting the complexities of modern Singapore by providing a refreshing perspective on the city-state's development. This book stands out because of its unique voice and the author's ability to deconstruct Singapore's progress in a critical yet insightful manner. Overall, Postmodern Singapore is an unmatched read for anyone wanting to examine Singapore's transformation in recent years.
Housing in Southeast Asian Capital Cities
Sold out
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.
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.
Restless Empire: China and the World Since 1750 - Thryft
Sold out
Odd Arne Westad | The Bodley Head Ltd

Restless Empire: China and the World Since 1750

$11.97

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$11.97

As the twenty-first century dawns, China stands at a crossroads. The largest and most populous country on earth and currently the world’s second biggest economy, China has recently reclaimed its historic place at the center of global affairs after decades of internal chaos and disastrous foreign relations. But even as China tentatively reengages with the outside world, the contradictions of its development risks pushing it back into an era of insularity and instability—a regression that, as China’s recent history shows, would have serious implications for all other nations.In Restless Empire, award-winning historian Odd Arne Westad traces China’s complex foreign affairs over the past 250 years, identifying the forces that will determine the country’s path in the decades to come. Since the height of the Qing Empire in the eighteenth century, China’s interactions—and confrontations—with foreign powers have caused its worldview to fluctuate wildly between extremes of dominance and subjugation, emulation and defiance. From the invasion of Burma in the 1760s to the Boxer Rebellion in the early 20th century to the 2001 standoff over a downed U.S. spy plane, many of these encounters have left Chinese with a lingering sense of humiliation and resentment, and inflamed their notions of justice, hierarchy, and Chinese centrality in world affairs. Recently, China’s rising influence on the world stage has shown what the country stands to gain from international cooperation and openness. But as Westad shows, the nation’s success will ultimately hinge on its ability to engage with potential international partners while simultaneously safeguarding its own strength and stability.An in-depth study by one of our most respected authorities on international relations and contemporary East Asian history, Restless Empire is essential reading for anyone wishing to understand the recent past and probable future of this dynamic and complex nation.
Factory Girls: Voices from the Heart of Modern China
Sold out
Leslie T. Chang | Picador Usa

Factory Girls: Voices from the Heart of Modern China

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$8.90

54% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the personal stories behind the headlines of China's economic surge, "Factory Girls" is for you. Leslie T. Chang dives deep into the lives of two women navigating the chaotic world of migrant labor, shedding light on the human cost of the products we often take for granted. It offers a profound, eye-opening experience that's both socially relevant and emotionally resonant.
China Is Messing with Your Mind
Sold out
Bilahari Kausikan | Epigram Books

China Is Messing with Your Mind

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$8.90

If you're keen on understanding the broader geopolitical maneuvers and their impacts on a personal and national identity, "China is Messing with Your Mind" could intrigue you. Kausikan's experience as a diplomat enriches this book with authenticity and provides a non-conventional perspective on the tensions between global powers and their subtle cultural influences, particularly for Singapore. It's an especially relevant read if you're interested in international affairs, identity politics, or the dynamics of Asian geopolitics.
Once a Jolly Hangman: Singapore Justice in the Dock
Sold out
Alan Shadrake | October 6, 2010

Once a Jolly Hangman: Singapore Justice in the Dock

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.47

$8.90

83% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the dark underbelly of Singapore's legal system. Through in-depth interviews and meticulously researched accounts, Alan Shadrake exposes the cruelty and imprudence of the death penalty. The author's empathy with the victims and their families adds a poignant touch to this eye-opening critique. Human rights activists, in particular, will find this book to be an invaluable resource in their fight for justice.
Chinese Language and Culture : An Intermediate Reader - Thryft
Sold out
Weijia Huang, Qun Ao  | The Chinese University Of Hong Kong Press

Chinese Language and Culture : An Intermediate Reader

$11.61

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$11.61

73% off est. retail
This book is perfect for intermediate learners who want to further immerse themselves within Chinese language and culture. Each article provides a unique perspective on an aspect of Chinese society, history or geography, and is supplemented by helpful grammatical notes and exercises. Readers will find this book a valuable resource for gaining a deeper understanding of Chinese culture while simultaneously improving their language abilities.
Asia's High Performing Education Systems : The Case of Hong Kong - Thryft
Sold out
Colin J. Marsh, John Chi-kin Lee  | Routledge

Asia's High Performing Education Systems : The Case of Hong Kong

$3.88

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$3.88

94% off est. retail
This book provides a deep understanding of Hong Kong's education system and highlights successful reforms that have brought about a major impact on schooling. It covers themes such as historical policy contexts, new curriculum approaches, changing pedagogies, school leadership, implementation and change, and assessment and evaluation. Recommended for educators who are interested in understanding and learning from successful education reform initiatives.
Southeast Asia : The Diversity Dilemma - Thryft
Sold out
Sree Kumar | Select Books Pte Ltd

Southeast Asia : The Diversity Dilemma

$11.60

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$11.60

Southeast Asia: The Diversity Dilemma provides an insightful look into the complex identity and diversity of Southeast Asia, exploring both the intra-regional concerns and external forces that shape the region. This book is recommended for those interested in understanding the development and evolution of Southeast Asia's regional identity in the context of global influences.
China : A New History - Thryft
Sold out
John King Fairbank, Merle Goldman  | Belknap

China : A New History

$10.47

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$10.47

72% off est. retail
Recommended for history enthusiasts, traces China's rich civilization through its ups and downs with a focus on the struggles of forming and maintaining a cohesive identity, while fiercely protecting individualism, the book offers an insight into how family, intellect, and autocratic rule blend to form what is contemporary China.
Air-Conditioned Nation Revisited
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Cherian George | Ethos Books

Air-Conditioned Nation Revisited

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$11.90

56% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for anyone interested in understanding the intricate blend of comfort and central control in Singapore's society. Through a compilation of essays by Cherian George, it provides critical insights into the country's political culture, shedding light on both its mastery of the environment and the potential risks it poses to individual autonomy and sustainability. With updated reflections on continuity and change, this 20th anniversary edition offers a comprehensive exploration of Singapore's unique societal dynamics, making it a must-read for those intrigued by the complexities of this nation.

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.