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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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Origins of Chinese Culture
Li Xiaoxiang | Asiapac

Origins of Chinese Culture

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

Goodreads rating: 3.6

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

65% off est. retail
If you've ever been intrigued by the vast and rich tapestry that is Chinese culture, Li Xiaoxiang's 'Origins of Chinese Culture' might just be the perfect deep dive for you. This book peels back layers of history to reveal the foundations upon which modern China stands. It's a compelling read for anyone who appreciates cultural nuance or for those with an academic interest in the subject.
Leaving Deep Water: Asian-American Women at the Crossroads of Two Cultures
Claire S. Chow | Plume

Leaving Deep Water: Asian-American Women at the Crossroads of Two Cultures

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$13.90

If you're intrigued by personal stories at the intersection of culture and identity, "Leaving Deep Water" could be quite a revelation. Claire S. Chow offers a window into the lives of Asian-American women balancing heritage with the currents of modern American life. The heartfelt narratives provide authenticity and depth, making this book a heartfelt exploration of self, family, and cultural expectations.
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.
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.
Brunei: From the Age of Commerce to the 21st Century
Marie Sybille de Vienne | Nus Press (singapore)

Brunei: From the Age of Commerce to the 21st Century

$23.90

Goodreads rating: 3.25

$23.90

62% off est. retail
If you're a history buff or someone with an interest in Southeast Asia's unique development paths, this book may fascinate you. It ties together Brunei's ancient trading legacy with its contemporary wealth and conservative investments, painting a picture of a nation that's strikingly different from its oil-rich peers. Plus, it peeks into the blend of tradition and modernity, adding texture to the understanding of this small yet prosperous sultanate.
Special Relationship in the Malay World: Indonesia and Malaysia
Ho Ying Chan | Iseas - Yusof Ishak Institute

Special Relationship in the Malay World: Indonesia and Malaysia

$27.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$27.90

57% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by international relations, particularly in Southeast Asia, Chan's analysis offers a deep dive into the complex relationship between Malaysia and Indonesia. By moving beyond surface-level diplomacy, it unpacks how historical ties, cultural commonalities, and political power plays shape their interactions. This study might broaden your perspective on how 'special relationships' function in the realpolitik of our world, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the subtleties of statecraft and regional dynamics.
Al-Jazeera: The Inside Story of the Arab News Channel That Is Challenging the West
Just Arrived
Hugh Miles | Grove Press

Al-Jazeera: The Inside Story of the Arab News Channel That Is Challenging the West

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 3.73

$12.90

If you're intrigued by media's power in shaping perceptions, Hugh Miles' exploration of Al Jazeera is essential. It's a deep dive into how this Arab news channel rose to challenge Western media dominance, offering insights that can shift your understanding of international news. You'll come away more informed about the complexities of global journalism.
Culture and the City in East Asia
Won Bae Kim, Sang-Chuel Choe, Won B. Kim  | Clarendon Press

Culture and the City in East Asia

$61.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$61.90

If you're fascinated by how urban landscapes shape and reflect culture, this deep dive into East Asian cities will resonate with you. It marries geography with social sciences to uncover how these bustling metropolises are not just economic giants but are also crucibles of cultural identity and transformation.
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.
Frontier Livelihoods: Hmong in the Sino-Vietnamese Borderlands
Sarah Turner, Christine Bonnin, Jean Michaud  | University Of Washington Press

Frontier Livelihoods: Hmong in the Sino-Vietnamese Borderlands

$47.90

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$47.90

73% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the complexities of how ethnic communities adapt to state policies and global market forces in varied political landscapes, "Frontier Livelihoods" could be an enlightening read. This ethnography delivers a nuanced look at the Hmong in Sino-Vietnamese borderlands, offering a compelling case for transnational studies over country-centric research. It's an in-depth exploration of resilience and agency among communities that navigate the challenges of development and modernization on their own terms.
China Against the Tides - Thryft
Marc Blecher | Continuum

China Against the Tides

$36.90 $10.90 70% off

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$36.90 $10.90 70% off

88% 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.
NORMALIZING JAPAN - Thryft
unknown author | Eurospan

NORMALIZING JAPAN

$7.92

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$7.92

81% off est. retail
"Normalizing Japan" provides a detailed analysis of the evolution of Japanese security policy since World War II. It challenges the common notion that Japan's security policy has undergone substantial change in recent years and highlights how Japan's long-standing security identity will likely continue to influence future policy. Anyone interested in understanding Japan's security policies and its role in international security will find this book informative and enlightening.
Postmodern Singapore
William Siew Wai Lim | Select Pub

Postmodern Singapore

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$8.26

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
Sold out
Cherian George | Ethos Books

Air-Conditioned Nation Revisited

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.42

$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.