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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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Tomorrow's World : A Look at the Demographic and Socio-economic Structure of the World in 2032 - Thryft
Clint Laurent | Wiley

Tomorrow's World : A Look at the Demographic and Socio-economic Structure of the World in 2032

$14.90 $5.90 60% off

Goodreads rating: 3.67

$14.90 $5.90 60% off

88% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by how global trends can affect the future, "Tomorrow's World" is a compelling read. Clint Laurent provides a forecast that isn't just data—it's a narrative of our near future where population shifts and economic changes become a canvas for innovation and strategic planning. Whether you're a business leader or just curious about the shape of things to come, this book acts as a guide to understanding and preparing for the demographic waves set to impact how we live, work, and play in the years ahead.
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.
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.
Tomorrow's People: The Future of Humanity in Ten Numbers
Paul Morland | Picador

Tomorrow's People: The Future of Humanity in Ten Numbers

$16.90 $10.90 36% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$16.90 $10.90 36% off

64% off est. retail
If you're into futurology and love data-driven insights, "Tomorrow's People" could be a fascinating read for you. Paul Morland uses numbers to weave a story about where humanity is headed, making complex demographic trends accessible and engaging. It's like getting a glimpse into the crystal ball of our collective future through the lens of statistics and expert analysis.
Singapore Perspectives 2011: Our Inclusive Society: Going Forward - Thryft
Faizal Bin Yahya | Wspc

Singapore Perspectives 2011: Our Inclusive Society: Going Forward

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$10.90

83% off est. retail
If you're keen on unpacking the complexities of a modern, globalized city-state, "Singapore Perspectives 2011" is a compelling read. The essays within, penned by local experts, will transport you to the heart of Singapore's policy debates. It's a deep-dive into the nation's social and economic challenges that's both accessible and illuminating, perfect for those looking to grasp the subtleties of Singapore's evolution.
Sustainability in Coffee Production: Creating Shared Value Chains in Colombia - Thryft
Andrea Biswas-Tortajada | Taylor And Francis

Sustainability in Coffee Production: Creating Shared Value Chains in Colombia

$40.90 $8.90 78% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$40.90 $8.90 78% off

If you're fascinated by the impact of sustainable efforts on global markets, and specifically love coffee, this might just stir your interest. The book delves into how ethical practices can transform an entire industry, securing better outcomes for local farmers and the environment, all while ensuring that your morning cup of joe is a responsible one. It's an enlightening examination of the journey coffee takes from the Colombian hills to your kitchen, made all the more enjoyable knowing it's done right.
The Complexity of Cooperation: Agent-Based Models of Competition and Collaboration
Robert Axelrod | Princeton University Press

The Complexity of Cooperation: Agent-Based Models of Competition and Collaboration

$16.90 $14.03 17% off

Goodreads rating: 3.99

$16.90 $14.03 17% off

78% off est. retail
If you're interested in understanding how intricate social behaviors and cooperation emerge, "The Complexity of Cooperation" might just deepen your appreciation for the nuances involved. Axelrod's accessible writing makes sophisticated concepts like game theory and agent-based modeling understandable. It's like putting on a new pair of glasses that clarify why individuals and societies interact the way they do, guided by invisible rules and patterns you'll soon begin to notice everywhere.
Consumer Behavior: Buying, Having, and Being - Thryft
Michael R. Solomon | Pearson

Consumer Behavior: Buying, Having, and Being

$42.90 $17.90 58% off

Goodreads rating: 3.87

$42.90 $17.90 58% off

77% off est. retail
If you're captivated by the "why" behind our purchases and how they intertwine with our identity, "Consumer Behavior: Buying, Having, and Being" is a treasure trove. Michael Solomon's approach doesn't just scratch the surface of buying habits; it dives deep into the cultural and psychological waters that shape our consumer-driven world. With the added benefit of timely digital consumer focus, you'll find yourself engaging with the material in a way that's both educational and genuinely fascinating, especially in a world increasingly influenced by the digital landscape.
The Enigma of Japanese Power - People and Politics in a Stateless Nation
Karel Van Wolferen | Alfred A Knopf

The Enigma of Japanese Power - People and Politics in a Stateless Nation

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

If you're fascinated by how nations tick, specifically through the lens of power dynamics and economic influences, "The Enigma of Japanese Power" offers a deep dive. Karel Van Wolferen's book is especially intriguing for those interested in political science or East Asian studies. It uncovers the unique mechanisms of a society that blends tradition with immense global influence.
Market Society: Markets and Modern Social Theory
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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
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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

$8.90 $8.26 7% off

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$8.90 $8.26 7% 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
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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
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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
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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.
Why Nations Fail : The Origins of Power, Prosperity, and Poverty - Thryft
Sold out
Daron Acemoğlu, James A. Robinson  | Crown Currency

Why Nations Fail : The Origins of Power, Prosperity, and Poverty

$8.06

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$8.06

73% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the monumental question of what makes countries thrive or dive, "Why Nations Fail" could prove to be an enlightening read. Daron Acemoglu and James Robinson weave an accessible narrative brimming with historical cases, arguing that a nation's fortunes hinge on its political and economic institutions. It's a rigorous yet digestible analysis that prompts reflection on global inequality, and it may very well shift your perspective on how countries can foster prosperity for their citizens.
Globalization and Its Discontents - Thryft
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Joseph E. Stiglitz | Allen Lane

Globalization and Its Discontents

$9.35

Goodreads rating: 3.87

$9.35

This book would be a good read for anyone seeking a fresh perspective on globalization. Stiglitz, a Nobel Prize-winning economist, offers a compelling argument that challenges the traditional narrative. Through his expertise and authority, he sheds light on the mishandling of globalization by the West and the importance of listening to anti-globalization protestors. Prepare to be enlightened and rethink your views on global politics.
Superfreakonomics : Global Cooling, Patriotic Prostitutes and Why Suicide Bombers Should Buy Life Insurance - Thryft
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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
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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.
Microtrends : The Small Forces Behind Tomorrow's Big Changes - Thryft
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Mark J. Penn, E. Kinney Zalesne  | Twelve

Microtrends : The Small Forces Behind Tomorrow's Big Changes

$10.03

Goodreads rating: 3.51

$10.03

74% off est. retail
Microtrends is a great read for those interested in understanding the small shifts occurring in America's culture. Author Mark Penn expertly analyzes the nation's emerging groups, highlighting trends such as people retiring but still working, and dads spending more time with their kids. Through the use of data and statistics, Penn shows readers how to identify these microtrends and harness their power to transform businesses, influence politics, and change lives. This book is most suited for individuals who want to stay informed and ahead of the curve.
Microtrends : The Small Forces Behind Today's Big Changes - Thryft
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Mark J. Penn, E. Kinney Zalesne  | Penguin Books Ltd

Microtrends : The Small Forces Behind Today's Big Changes

$7.20

Goodreads rating: 3.51

$7.20

Microtrends uncovers popular, under-the-radar forces using scientific study, providing practical implications for politics, business, and society.
Freakonomics : A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything - Thryft
Sold out
Steven D. Levitt, Stephen J. Dubner  | Penguin

Freakonomics : A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$9.90

50% off est. retail
Freakonomics is a fascinating exploration of the hidden side of the world we live in. Levitt and Dubner use their unique analytical perspective to unveil the truth about things we thought we understood but don't. Their unconventional approach to analyzing data leads to surprising and thought-provoking insights on everything from cheating teachers to bizarre baby names. This book is a must-read for anyone looking for unconventional and intriguing perspectives on complex phenomena.
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.

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.