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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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Selected Writings
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Émile Durkheim, Anthony Giddens  | Cambridge University Press

Selected Writings

$15.90

Goodreads rating: 3.81

$15.90

64% off est. retail
If you're delving into sociology or social theory, Durkheim’s "Selected Writings" is indispensable. This collection is curated thematically, offering a comprehensive perspective on his evolution as a thinker. Moreover, if you’ve struggled with translations before, Dr. Giddens has refined these to ensure you're getting Durkheim's ideas as authentically as possible.
Studies in Social and Political Theory
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Anthony Giddens | Harpercollins

Studies in Social and Political Theory

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

If you're intrigued by the evolution of social theories and their lasting impact, Anthony Giddens' "Studies in Social and Political Theory" will feel like unearthing a treasure trove. The book explores the birth of sociology, digging deep into the classical theories that shape our understanding of society and its transformations. It's an intellectual challenge that invites you to rethink the role of social sciences and their capacity to critique the world we live in.
The German Ideology, Part 1 & Selections from Parts 2 & 3
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Karl Marx, Friedrich Engels, Christopher John Arthur  | International Publishers

The German Ideology, Part 1 & Selections from Parts 2 & 3

$4.90 $2.90 41% off

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$4.90 $2.90 41% off

56% off est. retail
If you're looking to dive into the foundational texts of Marxist theory, "The German Ideology" is a pivotal read. It offers a deep look into how Marx and Engels interpret history through their materialist lens. Not only does it provide critical insight into their views on society and ideas, but it also serves as a crucial piece for anyone interested in the philosophical underpinnings of socialist and communist thought.
Understanding Media: The Extensions of Man
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Marshall McLuhan | Routledge

Understanding Media: The Extensions of Man

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$13.90

59% off est. retail
Imagine grasping the future of our digital world decades before anyone else—that's what McLuhan offers in "Understanding Media." It's an intellectual adventure for anyone intrigued by how technology shapes society and communication. Now, his concepts of the "global village" and "the medium is the message" are not just relevant but essential in navigating our globally connected lives. If you're curious about the impact of media and want to see where it all was predicted, this book is a fascinating exploration that feels more like a roadmap with each passing day.
Challenge - Thryft
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مهاتير محمد, Mahathir Mohamad  | Pelanduk Pubns Sdn Bhd

Challenge

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.29

$8.26

84% off est. retail
Dr Mahathir Mohamad, Malaysia's Prime Minister since 1981, is well known for his original ideas and incisive plain-speaking. Both traits are grippingly evident in this book, where he takes a hard and honest look at certain modes of thinking and living that ver vying for spremacy in the modern world, in general, and within the Malay community in Malaysia, in particular.With charateristic aplomb bd straight forwardness, Dr Mahathir explodes fallacies and exposes distortions concerning religiosity, education, role models, democracy, communism, freedom and dicipline, and the concerns of this world and the next. Only by striking an equilibrium between an interest in things spiritual and secular, can the Malays hope ro face and overcome the conflicting forces and challenges of the modern world.'The Challenge' is thought provoking and is of special interest today as Dr Mahathir is at the helm of a nation striving for racial balance and religious sanity. He expounds the need for a new system of values, ethics and attitudes which the Malays must adopt in the country's quest to become a developed nation by the year 2020. By championing his Vision 2020 and the Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC), Malaysia, under his stewardship, will reach even greater heights.
Creating Freedom: Power, Control and the Fight for Our Future - Thryft
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Raoul Martinez | Canongate Books

Creating Freedom: Power, Control and the Fight for Our Future

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.27

$8.26

59% off est. retail
The idea of freedom is at the heart of our political and economic systems. It is foundational to our democracy, our way of life - our very conception of what it is to be human. But are we free in the way that we think we are?In Creating Freedom, Raoul Martinez compellingly dismantles the sacred myth of freedom, showing that our belief that our institutions are free, even our sense of ourselves as agents of free will, is all based on false understanding. From the lottery of our birth, to the coercive influence of our media, to the self-reinforcing, consent-manufacturing realities of power and money, this far-reaching manifesto fiercely demonstrates just how differently we would act if we accepted how the world really is.It shows that freedom is not something we are given; it is not even something we can easily take. But with empathy, imagination, and determination - it is something we can create.
44 Letters from the Liquid Modern World
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Zygmunt Bauman | Polity

44 Letters from the Liquid Modern World

$25.90 $19.90 23% off

Goodreads rating: 3.87

$25.90 $19.90 23% off

75% off est. retail
If you find yourself both intrigued and troubled by the rapid pace of modern life, "44 Letters from the Liquid Modern World" could resonate with you. Zygmunt Bauman's reflections through a series of letters provide insightful commentary on the transient nature of today’s society. It's like having a philosophical compass to navigate the overwhelming sea of information and change, offering a profound understanding of the everyday that's often taken for granted.
Disability - Thryft
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Colin Barnes | Polity

Disability

$6.34

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$6.34

79% off est. retail
For most of the twentieth century, people with disabilities have been regarded as ‘victims’ of their condition and a ‘burden’ on society. More recently, however, disabled people and their organizations across Europe and North America have challenged conventional explanations for their individual and collective disadvantage, calling for policy measures to change the image and status of disabled people in the Western world.In this new book, Barnes and Mercer provide a concise and accessible introduction to the concept of disability. Drawing on a burgeoning ‘disability studies’ literature from around the world, and from a range of disciplinary perspectives, the authors explore the evolution of this concept and offer a wide-ranging critique of established academic, policy and professional orthodoxies. The book highlights disabled peoples’ exclusion and marginalization in key areas of social activity and participation across different historical and cultural contexts, such as family life and reproduction, education, employment, leisure, cultural imagery and politics.The analysis concentrates on disability as a distinctive form of social oppression similar to that experienced by women, minority ethnic and ‘racial’ groups, and lesbians and gay men. Key issues addressed theorizing disability; historical and comparative perspectives; experiencing impairment and disability; professional and policy intervention in the lives of disabled people; disability politics, social policy and citizenship; and disability culture.This will be essential reading for those studying sociology, social policy, social work, health studies, disability studies, and those in the therapy and nursing professions.
Nations And Nationalism Since 1780 - Programme, Myth, Reality - Thryft
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Eric J. Hobsbawm | Cambridge University Press

Nations And Nationalism Since 1780 - Programme, Myth, Reality

$5.07

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$5.07

87% off est. retail
Recommendation: - If you're curious about the origins and evolution of nationalism and want to understand its impact on the world, "Nations And Nationalism Since 1780 - Programme, Myth, Reality" is a must-read. Hobsbawm brilliantly dissects the intricacies of nationalism, providing insights into its historical context and its influence on modern politics. This book offers a compelling analysis that will broaden your understanding of this complex phenomenon.
The Performativity Of Value - On The Citability Of Cultural Commodities - Thryft
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Steve Sherlock | Lexington Books

The Performativity Of Value - On The Citability Of Cultural Commodities

$3.88

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$3.88

98% off est. retail
Recommendation: - This book is a fascinating exploration of the influence of cultural commodities on social identity. Through the lens of language, the author delves into the concept of "performative" value and its impact on the cultural economy. If you're interested in understanding how our society assigns meaning to objects, this thought-provoking read is for you.
The Phallus And The Mask - The Patriarchal Unconscious Of Psychoanalysis - Thryft
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Marina de Carneri | Mimesis International

The Phallus And The Mask - The Patriarchal Unconscious Of Psychoanalysis

$3.88

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$3.88

84% off est. retail
Book Recommendation: This thought-provoking book delves into the patriarchal unconsciousness that still lingers in psychoanalysis. Through a critical analysis of femininity, the author sheds light on how phallocentrism obscures true understanding of desire, sexual differences, and relationships. If you're interested in challenging traditional perspectives and exploring feminist theory in the realm of psychoanalysis, this book is for you.
Sexuality, Gender And Rights - Exploring Theory And Practice In South And Southeast Asia - Thryft
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Geetanjali Misra, Radhika Chandiramani  | Sage Publications Pvt. Ltd

Sexuality, Gender And Rights - Exploring Theory And Practice In South And Southeast Asia

$10.17

Goodreads rating: 3.67

$10.17

92% off est. retail
This book delves deep into the cultural and societal structures of South and Southeast Asia and how they impact individuals who identify as sexual minorities. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the work done by various organizations to promote gender and sexual rights that were long denied to people who did not adhere to the traditional gender norms of their respective cultures. This book is a good read for anyone interested in understanding the unique challenges and inequalities faced by sexual minorities in Asia. It provides extensive coverage on issues like sexuality education, gender orientation, and the representation of sexuality in popular culture.
Postmodern Management and Organization Theory - Thryft
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Robert P. Gephart Jr., David M. Boje, Tojo Joseph Thatchenkery  | Sage Publications, Inc

Postmodern Management and Organization Theory

$31.02

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$31.02

86% off est. retail
This book is an excellent resource for those looking to critically evaluate postmodern theory in the realm of management and organization theory. It provides an overview of the history and evolution of relevant postmodern philosophies including feminist, cultural, and environmental philosophies. It establishes an agenda for future research, making it a valuable resource for scholars, researchers and upper-level students in organization theory, organization behavior and change, management, and industrial psychology.
Leading Starts In The Mind - Thryft
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A. Moneim El-Meligi | Wspc

Leading Starts In The Mind

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

95% off est. retail
"Leading Starts In The Mind" is a must-read for anyone interested in leadership. The book explores the complexities of the psycho-social phenomenon of leadership and offers a refreshing perspective on how to approach it. Through semantic analysis, the author highlights the conceptual muddle underlying many managerial practices. The book examines leadership from different perspectives and delves into patterns of influence and use and abuse of power. The insightful analysis of obedience and the collusion of leaders and followers in the abuse of power makes this book unique and thought-provoking.
Global Citizenship Education : Everyday Transcendence - Thryft
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William Gaudelli | Routledge

Global Citizenship Education : Everyday Transcendence

$20.56

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$20.56

76% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in preparing the youth for a complex, interconnected world. Gaudelli highlights the importance of including marginalized communities in global citizenship education, providing practical illustrations of how educators can achieve this important goal. Through this book, readers will be inspired to consider their own role in creating a more inclusive and globally-conscious classroom.
Two Cheers for Anarchism : Six Easy Pieces on Autonomy, Dignity, and Meaningful Work and Play - Thryft
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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.
Reading Pragmatism - Thryft
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Cleo H. Cherryholmes | Teachers College Press

Reading Pragmatism

$8.98 $6.29 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.75

$8.98 $6.29 30% off

84% off est. retail
Reading Pragmatism is a great read for those interested in exploring the philosophy of pragmatism, particularly through the works of Peirce, James, and Dewey. Cherryholmes offers a thorough examination of the topic, exploring complex concepts with ease and making it accessible to readers. The book's unique feature is its exploration of the relationship between power, knowledge and aesthetics of ordinary experiences. Overall, this book is highly recommended for those looking for an engaging and insightful discussion on pragmatism.
Critical Theories in Education : Changing Terrains of Knowledge and Politics - Thryft
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Lynn Fendler, Thomas S. Popkewitz  | Routledge

Critical Theories in Education : Changing Terrains of Knowledge and Politics

$18.89 $13.22 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$18.89 $13.22 30% off

87% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for educators and researchers who are interested in critical theories and social justice issues in education. It critiques traditional ideas of critical theory and brings in fresh perspectives from different disciplines. The book is notable for its exploration of Marxist theories of education, as well as its connection of pedagogy with larger issues of the state, economy, social movements, and literary criticism. The book provides a valuable resource for those interested in rethinking traditional approaches to education and bringing about positive social change.
Power and Criticism : Post-structural Investigations in Education - Thryft
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Cleo Cherryholmes | Teachers College Pr

Power and Criticism : Post-structural Investigations in Education

$6.83 $4.78 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$6.83 $4.78 30% off

84% off est. retail
Recommendation: This book offers a thought-provoking examination of the current education system using the lenses of post-structuralism, providing insights on how power operates in educational systems. It is suitable for educators and students of education who are interested in exploring new perspectives and unlearning established beliefs about education.
Eco-Justice - Essays On Theory And Practice In 2016 - Thryft
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Chet A. Bowers, Joseph Progler, Anonymous  | Eco-justice Press, Llc

Eco-Justice - Essays On Theory And Practice In 2016

$3.88 $2.72 30% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$3.88 $2.72 30% off

90% off est. retail
Eco-Justice is an important collection of essays that offer a unique, global perspective on the relationship between environment and society. It offers a compelling argument for why we need to adopt an eco-justice approach to address the pressing environmental issues that we face today. The essays are written by experts from different parts of the world who bring diverse perspectives and insights to the discussion. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex relationship between society and the environment and how we can create a more just and sustainable future.
The Fall of Public Man - Thryft
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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.
Does Ethics Have a Chance in a World of Consumers? - Thryft
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Does Ethics Have a Chance in a World of Consumers?

$10.15 $7.10 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$10.15 $7.10 30% off

84% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for those who feel lost in the complexity of the modern world and seek to understand how to make sense of it. Bauman presents a unique perspective on reframing beliefs and thinking critically about the hierarchical arrangement of states and powers. The book encourages readers to embrace hope as a common weapon to overcome vulnerability in the face of domineering governments and threats from unknown forces abroad.
The Ticklish Subject : Absent Centre of Political Ontology - Thryft
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Slavoj Žižek | Verso

The Ticklish Subject : Absent Centre of Political Ontology

$8.99

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$8.99

71% off est. retail
The Ticklish Subject introduces a fresh perspective on the Cartesian subject, arguing that its subversive core might hold indispensable value for any emancipatory politics. If you're interested in exploring philosophical frameworks for politics, this book could be an intriguing read. Zizek's writing is thought-provoking and incisive, and his book could be a unique addition to any reader's collection.
The End of History and the Last Man - Thryft
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Francis Fukuyama | Penguin

The End of History and the Last Man

$10.35

Goodreads rating: 3.59

$10.35

71% off est. retail
The End of History and the Last Man is an insightful read for those interested in understanding the fundamental changes that have taken place since the Cold War. Fukuyama's argument that liberal democracy has emerged as the ultimate global ideology still holds weight, making it a must-read for those seeking a deep understanding of contemporary global politics.
Salafism in Lebanon : Local and Transnational Movements - Thryft
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Zoltan Pall | Cambridge University Press

Salafism in Lebanon : Local and Transnational Movements

$8.53 $3.67 57% off

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$8.53 $3.67 57% off

97% off est. retail
This book is an insightful and in-depth analysis of the dynamics of non-violent Lebanese Salafi groups, shedding light on the lesser-known peaceful proselytization aspects of Salafism. It also explores the importance of transnational links, leading to the fragmentation of the Lebanese Salafi community. The book highlights how Salafism creates and mobilizes material and symbolic resources, reshaping the structures of authority within Lebanon's Sunni Muslim community. Highly recommended for those interested in understanding the complexity of Salafism in Lebanon beyond its association with violence.
Towards a Sociology of the Novel - Thryft
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Lucien Goldmann | Routledge Kegan & Paul

Towards a Sociology of the Novel

$4.90

Goodreads rating: 3.52

$4.90

76% off est. retail
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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.