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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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Asian Values, Western Dreams: Understanding the New Asia - Thryft
Greg Sheridan | Allen & Unwin

Asian Values, Western Dreams: Understanding the New Asia

$12.32 $4.90 60% off

Goodreads rating: 2.75

$12.32 $4.90 60% off

89% off est. retail
"Asian Values, Western Dreams" isn't just a study; it's a journey that brings you face to face with the dynamic tensions shaping modern Asia. Greg Sheridan invites you to look beyond stereotypes and experience the region's cultures and conflicts through a tapestry of firsthand narratives. This book might be an indispensable companion for understanding how Asia carves its own path, all while you traverse its vivid landscapes from your armchair.
Governance, Administration and Development: Making the State Work
David Hulme | Palgrave He Uk

Governance, Administration and Development: Making the State Work

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.17

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

89% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the intricate gears of governance and public administration, particularly within the developing world's vibrant tapestry, this book offers a profound dive. It dissects the challenges and intricacies faced by these nations, enlightening you on the pivotal role policy and administration play in societal advancement. It's an insightful resource that can illuminate the inner workings and broader impacts of governmental processes.
Microtrends: The Small Forces Behind Today's Big Changes
Mark J. Penn, E. Kinney Zalesne  | Penguin Books Ltd

Microtrends: The Small Forces Behind Today's Big Changes

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.51

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

75% off est. retail
Imagine finding a treasure map to modern society—'Microtrends' is just that. It’s a compelling read if you're curious about the undercurrents shaping our world that often go unnoticed. You'll be equipped with the trend-spotter’s lens, allowing you to see beyond the obvious and understand the subtle forces dictating change. It’s perfect for strategists, marketers, or just the curious mind looking to understand the world a little better.
The Economics of the World Trading System
Kyle Bagwell, Robert Staiger, Robert W. Staiger  | Mit Press

The Economics of the World Trading System

$26.90 $17.90 33% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$26.90 $17.90 33% off

66% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by what shapes the world's markets and the flow of goods across borders, "The Economics of the World Trading System" is a worthy read. It dives into the complexities of trade with clarity and scholarly insight, revealing how international agreements and institutions such as the WTO impact our daily lives and the global economy. The analytical approach makes it an indispensable resource for anyone interested in understanding the real forces behind the news headlines.
Alternatives to Economic Globalization: A Better World Is Possible
John Cavanagh | Berrett-koehler

Alternatives to Economic Globalization: A Better World Is Possible

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$13.90

This is a thoughtful, energizing read for anyone who wants more than just criticism of the global economy. It stands out because it offers concrete, workable alternatives, showing how fairer and more sustainable systems could actually function. Readers who care about justice, ecology, and citizen power would likely find it both clarifying and motivating.
Inventions
David Smith | Harpercollins Publishers

Inventions

$19.90 $15.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$19.90 $15.90 20% off

If you're fascinated by human creativity and the evolution of technology, "Inventions" is a treasure trove that you'll appreciate. It's not just a catalogue of gadgets and gizmos but a celebration of the leaps in thinking that have shaped our world. You'll likely find each page sparking curiosity and wonder about the stories behind the tools and technologies we often take for granted.
Microtrends: The Small Forces Behind Tomorrow's Big Changes
Mark J. Penn, E. Kinney Zalesne  | Twelve

Microtrends: The Small Forces Behind Tomorrow's Big Changes

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.51

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

87% off est. retail
Recommendation: 1. This book is a fascinating exploration of the microtrends shaping America's future. With his keen analysis, Mark Penn presents over 70 hidden-in-plain-sight trends that are influencing our culture, economy, and personal lives. From retirees who continue to work to tech-savvy women driving technology, this book uncovers the evolving dynamics of our society. Penn's expertise in identifying emerging groups makes this a valuable read for anyone wanting to navigate the ever-changing landscape of business, politics, and personal growth. 2. Uncovering the secrets behind America's evolving landscape, Microtrends offers a fresh perspective on our society. Mark Penn's insightful analysis reveals the small patterns of behavior that have a significant impact on our daily lives. Whether you're an entrepreneur, politician, or simply curious about the forces shaping our future, this book will help you see the world in a new light. Prepare to be enlightened and empowered by the microtrends that are reshaping our nation.
Future Shock
Alvin Toffler | Bantam

Future Shock

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

Goodreads rating: 3.81

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

79% off est. retail
"Future Shock" feels like a time capsule from 1970 that still resonates today. It delves deep into how rapidly advancing technologies and societal shifts might leave us disoriented. If you're curious about how past generations envisioned the future—a future we're living in—it's a fascinating and thought-provoking read. It urges us to think critically about adaptability and resilience in the face of unrelenting change.
Human Resource Management
Just Arrived
Shane R. Premeaux, R. Wayne Mondy, Robert M. Noe  | Pearson College Div

Human Resource Management

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$11.90

If you're diving into the dynamics of managing human capital, "Human Resource Management" is a must-have. Mondy tackles the practical and theoretical aspects of HR with a refreshing balance. The book includes insightful real-world examples, showing how concepts play out in the workplace. Whether you're a student or a business professional, this book arms you with the necessary tools to navigate and thrive in the fast-paced corporate environment.
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.
Future of Capitalism: How Today's Economic Forces Shape Tomorrow's World
Lester Thurow | 1996

Future of Capitalism: How Today's Economic Forces Shape Tomorrow's World

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.59

$9.90

If you're intrigued by the evolving landscape of global economics and wonder how capitalism will adapt to modern challenges, Lester Thurow's book might just be your crystal ball. Thurow's insights could provide a thought-provoking understanding of the economic currents and forces that will sculpt the world of tomorrow. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the interplay between economics and the future.
Singapore Perspectives 2009: The Heart of the Matter - Thryft
Tarn How Tan | Wspc

Singapore Perspectives 2009: The Heart of the Matter

$31.90 $15.90 50% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$31.90 $15.90 50% off

77% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the societal and political undercurrents shaping modern Singapore, "Singapore Perspectives 2009: The Heart Of The Matter" offers a treasure trove of analyses and ideas. You'll engage with forward-thinking essays that don't just skim the surface but dive deep into Singapore's identity, presented by those who don't just observe but actively shape its narrative. Whether you're a policy enthusiast or someone interested in the resilient spirit of small, globalized nations, this book promises to enrich your understanding and spark thoughtful conversations.
Ethan B. Kapstein, Joshua W. Busby  | Cambridge University Press

AIDS Drugs for All: Social Movements and Market Transformations

$27.90 $18.90 32% off

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$27.90 $18.90 32% off

If you're passionate about social change and healthcare equity, "AIDS Drugs for All" will resonate with you. This book not only provides a deep dive into the transformative power of social movements on pharmaceutical markets but serves as a blueprint for activism. It's an inspiring read that showcases how coordinated efforts can result in monumental shifts towards access for all, which might just ignite your own drive to make a difference.
Money Metaverse: How Crypto Is Reinventing Finance & Property and Unlocking Value Via Tokenization
Paul Schulte and William Dogger | Independently Published

Money Metaverse: How Crypto Is Reinventing Finance & Property and Unlocking Value Via Tokenization

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$11.90

This is a good pick if you want the why behind crypto, not just the hype. It connects AI, blockchain, NFTs, and tokenization into a bigger picture about how money, ownership, and trust could change. Readers who enjoy future-facing finance books will likely appreciate how ambitious it feels, especially when it imagines digital property as something real, ownable, and economically transformative.
China: Development and Governance
Wang Gungwu, Yongnian Zheng  | Wspc

China: Development and Governance

$38.90 $25.90 33% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$38.90 $25.90 33% off

68% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the complex tapestry of modern China's socio-economic and political landscape, "China: Development And Governance" could enlighten you. It's not just about China's impressive growth but about the crucial role of governance needed to tackle its internal challenges and international pressures. This book offers a digestible collection of short chapters perfect for those looking for an accessible doorway into understanding East Asia's contemporary dynamics.
The Role of Unions in the Twenty-First Century: A Report for the Fondazione Rodolfo Debenedetti
Tito Boeri, Agar Brugiavini, Lars Calmfors  | Oxford University Press

The Role of Unions in the Twenty-First Century: A Report for the Fondazione Rodolfo Debenedetti

$40.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$40.90

68% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the ever-shifting landscape of labor rights and economics, this report will offer you fresh insights into how unions adapt and influence work in our times. For anyone invested in understanding the power dynamics between workers, employers, and the market today, it's an illuminating read.
Microtrends
Mark J. Penn, E. Kinney Zalesne  | Twelve

Microtrends

$11.90 $9.90 17% off

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$11.90 $9.90 17% off

If you're fascinated by the subtleties of societal shifts, "Microtrends" is a treasure trove waiting for you. Mark Penn's expertise as a renowned pollster shines as he unveils the small forces steering large changes. This book isn't just about trends; it's a detailed map of the quiet undercurrents that can ignite significant movements in culture and commerce. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a marketer, or just someone who enjoys a deep dive into societal analysis, "Microtrends" will change the way you see the world.
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.
Critical Mass: How One Thing Leads to Another: Being an Enquiry Into the Interplay of Chance and Necessity in the Way That Human Culture, Customs, Institutions, Cooperation and Conflict Arise
Sold out
Philip Ball | Arrow Books

Critical Mass: How One Thing Leads to Another: Being an Enquiry Into the Interplay of Chance and Necessity in the Way That Human Culture, Customs, Institutions, Cooperation and Conflict Arise

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

64% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the intersection of human behavior and science, "Critical Mass" is a riveting journey that you won't want to miss. Philip Ball masterfully bridges disciplines to craft a narrative that's as enlightening as it is accessible, offering insights into our collective actions and the underlying patterns that guide them. This book might change the way you perceive the world and our role in it, blending the meticulousness of scientific inquiry with the complexity of social interactions.
Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything
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Steven D.; Dubner Levitt | Allen Lane

Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

Ever thought about the economics of drug dealers or what sumo wrestlers and teachers might have in common? If such quirky questions intrigue you, "Freakonomics" is right up your alley! It's not a standard economics textbook—it's a trove of unusual insights that will shift how you see the everyday world. The unconventional perspective might just hook you, whether you're into economics or just love a good intellectual twist.
That Used to Be Us - What Went Wrong with America - and How It Can Come Back
Sold out
Thomas L. Friedman, Michael Mandelbaum  | Little Brown And Company

That Used to Be Us - What Went Wrong with America - and How It Can Come Back

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

88% off est. retail
If you're wondering about the shifts in American society, this book might be your cup of tea. Friedman and Mandelbaum offer a compelling narrative that slices through the fog of political and economic discourse. They do not just present problems but offer a lens of optimism to view America's potential for revitalization, a read that balances critique with hope.
The Great Disruption - Human Nature and the Reconstitution of Social Order - Thryft
Sold out
Francis Fukuyama | Free Press

The Great Disruption - Human Nature and the Reconstitution of Social Order

$17.90 $9.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$17.90 $9.90 45% off

75% off est. retail
If you've been feeling the seismic shifts in our social landscape, "The Great Disruption" by Francis Fukuyama might resonate with you. Fukuyama doesn't just dwell on what's been lost; he offers a rigorous analysis of these changes and gives a glimpse of the emerging social order. For anyone seeking to understand the interplay between human nature and societal change, this book lays out a comprehensive foundation that's as thought-provoking as it is enlightening.
Freakonomics
Sold out
Stephen J. Dubner, Steven D. Levitt  | Penguin Uk

Freakonomics

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$8.90

"Freakonomics" isn't your standard economics textbook; it's a treasure trove of quirky insights where data tells unexpected tales. For those curious about the hidden economic factors that influence our daily lives, Levitt offers a fresh, sometimes shocking, perspective. If you enjoy having your mind bent in new directions, this book will not only entertain but also arm you with stories that challenge conventional wisdom.
Superfreakonomics : Global Cooling, Patriotic Prostitutes and Why Suicide Bombers Should Buy Life Insurance - Thryft
Sold out
Steven D. Levitt | Allen Lane

Superfreakonomics : Global Cooling, Patriotic Prostitutes and Why Suicide Bombers Should Buy Life Insurance

$11.43

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$11.43

72% off est. retail
This book is a captivating sequel to the international bestseller, Freakonomics. With their unique style and wit, the authors delve into controversial subjects like terrorism, charity, and prostitution. Prepare to be amazed as Superfreakonomics uncovers hidden truths and transforms the way you see the world. It's a thought-provoking read that will challenge your perspectives and leave you wanting more.
Indonesia Assessment: Population and Human Resources - Thryft
Sold out
Gavin W. Jones | Institute Of Southeast Asian Studies

Indonesia Assessment: Population and Human Resources

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$12.90

82% off est. retail
This book provides a comprehensive evaluation of Indonesia's population and human resource development, making it a great read for anyone interested in understanding the country's current situation and prospects for the future. It offers a unique insight into the relationship between population growth and economic development in the country, making it an essential read for students and researchers in the field of population studies and development economics.
Human Resource Issues in Singapore
Sold out
Gregory Tin Sin Thong | Addison-wesley

Human Resource Issues in Singapore

$17.90 $7.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$17.90 $7.90 56% off

89% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the complexities of managing people and want to gain a better understanding of human resource practices in a fast-developing Asian economy, "Human Resource Issues in Singapore" is a must-read. It provides a localized perspective that encapsulates the cultural and economic nuances of Singapore's workforce in the mid-90s, which might be interesting for professionals and academics in the fields of HR and international business.
Freakonomics : A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything - Thryft
Sold out
Stephen J. Dubner, Steven D. Levitt  | William Morrow

Freakonomics : A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$8.26

79% off est. retail
Which is more dangerous, a gun or a swimming pool? What do schoolteachers and sumo wrestlers have in common? Why do drug dealers still live with their moms? How much do parents really matter? What kind of impact did Roe v. Wade have on violent crime? These may not sound like typical questions for an economist to ask. But Steven D. Levitt is not a typical economist. He is a much heralded scholar who studies the stuff and riddles of everyday life-; from cheating and crime to sports and child rearing-; and whose conclusions regularly turn the conventional wisdom on its head. He usually begins with a mountain of data and a simple, unasked question. Some of these questions concern life-and-death issues; others have an admittedly freakish quality. Thus the new field of study contained in this book: freakonomics.Through forceful storytelling and wry insight, Levitt and co-author Stephen J. Dubner show that economics is, at root, the study of incentives-; how people get what they want, or need, especially when other people want or need the same thing. In "Freakonomics," they set out to explore the hidden side of ... well, everything. The inner workings of a crack gang. The truth about real-estate agents. The myths of campaign finance. The telltale marks of a cheating schoolteacher. The secrets of the Ku Klux Klan.What unites all these stories is a belief that the modern world, despite a surfeit of obfuscation, complication, and downright deceit, is not impenetrable, is not unknowable, and-; if the right questions are asked-; is even more intriguing than we think. All it takes is a new way of looking. Steven Levitt, through devilishly clever and clear-eyed thinking, shows how to seethrough all the clutter."Freakonomics" establishes this unconventional premise: If morality represents how we would like the world to work, then economics represents how it actually does work. It is true that readers of this book will be armed with enough riddles and stories to last a thousand cocktail parties. But "Freakonomics" can provide more than that. It will literally redefine the way we view the modern world.(front flap)
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.
Superfreakonomics : Global Cooling, Patriotic Prostitutes and Why Suicide Bombers Should Buy Life Insurance - Thryft
Sold out
Stephen J. Dubner | January 1, 2011

Superfreakonomics : Global Cooling, Patriotic Prostitutes and Why Suicide Bombers Should Buy Life Insurance

$5.71

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$5.71

59% off est. retail
Review: Superfreakonomics is a fascinating exploration of unconventional economic principles that will challenge your preconceived notions. Levitt and Dubner dive deep into controversial topics, presenting mind-bending truths that are backed by unexpected economic insights. From discussing the surprising risks of walking drunk to the intriguing dynamics between prostitutes and policemen, this book will keep you engaged from start to finish. Prepare to have your perspective shifted and your assumptions shattered as you explore the hidden side of societal issues.
Outliers: The Story of Success
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Malcolm Gladwell | Penguin Books

Outliers: The Story of Success

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

72% off est. retail
If you've ever wondered why some people achieve extraordinary success, "Outliers" might shed some light on the matter. Malcolm Gladwell delves deep into the backgrounds of various high achievers, revealing the surprising and often overlooked factors that contribute to their achievements. This isn't your typical success manual; it's an eye-opening exploration of how culture, circumstances, and timing can shape a person's destiny. It's thought-provoking and challenges the way we typically think about success and merit.

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.