Product Description

A Down-to-Earth Approach

Henslin's popular brief paperback text shares the excitement of sociology, with its acclaimed “down-to-earth” approach and personal writing style that highlight the sociology of everyday life and its relevance to students' lives. James Henslin has a unique ability to engage students without talking down to them or sacrificing content. With wit, personal reflection, and illuminating examples, he shares with readers his passion for sociology.

Students are guided on their sociological journey with:

Down-to-Earth Approach

Comparative Perspectives

Globalization of Capitalism

Visual Presentations of Sociology

Customer Reviews (21)

Essentials of Sociology review
Interesting and easy to read. I'm glad this book is being used by my instructor.

DONT BUY FROM HERE.
i have yet to recieve my order and it is well after the delivery date. i have sent emails to the seller and nothing has happened. DONT BUY FROM HERE.

Good at getting the facts
This textbook is a great intro to sociology textbook. the author, while cheesy at times, does give really clear examples, and explains the various theories, perspectives, experiments, and concepts. the concept boxes that apply sociology to everyday life are really helpful as well.

GREAT
The posting said the book was in "GOOD" condition but when we got it we were amazed about how good of a condition it really was. We were expecting highlightings, notes in the margins and bent edges. BUT nothing. It was in almost brand new condition. I will definetly buy from this seller again! And the price was very good! I believe we only paid about $35 for the book itself that's over half off from the bookstore at the college AND the book was in almost new condition. How can you go wrong with that? In addition to that, we received it within 3 days of ordering it. Very impressed!!!

Thank you for the Essentials of Sociology Study Guide
Thank you so much for the book you sold to me back on 8/10/10. The quick service of shipping and the condition of the Sociology book, "A Down to Earth Approach is greatly appreciated. I never realized by something on-line and from a person instead of a company could work out the way this all did. Thank you so much for making this whole market of buying and selling work out so well. Thank You, Kim ... Read more

Product Description
This revised edition of Richard T. Schaefer’s Sociology: A Brief Introduction provides students with a comprehensive, up-to-date presentation of sociology.Students learn to think critically about society and their own lives from a wide range of classical and contemporary perspectives. Combining balanced coverage of theory with current research findings, examples that students can relate to, and abundant learning aids and exercises, the new edition continues to encourage the development of sociological imagination.Greater coverage of globalization through a new chapter and boxes focusing on “Social Change in the Global Community” help remove ethnocentric blinders and teaches students to think globally about issues and policies. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (23)

books
The person mailed me someone else book. I had took call that other person and have her send me my book and I had to send her book to her. The service sucked.

This book has really helped me in my class
I would certainly recommend this book. It is very informative and has helped me in my class.

Sociology: A Brief Introduction
Book was as exactly as posted. The book was in great condition and shipped really fast. Thanks!!

Very Well Done
Ordered August 30th and receive in Sep 4.
Shipped within 2 day after ordering.
Shipped with USPS with tracking number.
Condition: New Book
Shipped in a book with dust cover covering the book.

p.s Thanks for giving me such a big box!

meh
product delivered with water damage.........LOTS OF HIGHLIGHTING!!!! AND PEN MARKS.......kind of annoying..... BUT OVERALL good for my course. ... Read more

Product Description
John Macionis, like many college students, found his passion and life’s work after taking an introductory sociology course. Sociology helped him make sense of the world around him. John shares his enthusiasm, excitement and teaching experience through a clear and engaging writing style that connects with students.

Customer Reviews (17)

great buy
i was required to buy this book for my sociology class, and it turned out to be an interesting read. it is a textbook, but its not quite as boring as a normal textbook. it has a fairly unique layout, with some interesting design choices, which makes it a bit more fun to read. it is easy to read, and covers a lot of different aspects of sociology. i don't know if i would buy this if it wasn't for class, but you definitely won't be disappointed with it as a textbook!! also, i bought it used, and its in great condition!

not too bad...
the seller's original description of this product was that it was "like new!"... that was it. the only thing that i wish the seller would have mentioned was that while the book is in great shape, it also has a moderate amount of highlighting and notes written throughout the pages. because of this i found the original description to be slightly misleading. still, these things considered, it beats paying the bookstore price for one.

GREAT SELLER
I ordered my book about five days ago it was
cheap, fast and in great condition!!

great book
I received the book really fast and the book was in great condition brand new. I will keep ordering from them.

sociology 12th edition
This book goes beyond the average sociology book with many examples of the concepts that I like to cover. ... Read more

Product Description

Down-to-Earth Approach

James Henslin shares the excitement of sociology, with his acclaimed "down-to-earth" approach and personal writing style that highlight the sociology of everyday life and its relevance to students' lives. With wit, personal reflection, and illuminating examples, he shares with readers his passion for sociology.

In addition to this trademark down-to-earth approach, other distinctive features include:

Comparative perspectives. Two important themes are global comparisons - the diversity of social life across cultures and societies - and comparisons over time - what society used to be like, and how it has changed.

The Globalization of Capitalism. Many examples highlight the ways in which our global economy influences the skills and knowledge we need, the work we do, and the cost of goods and services.

Visual Presentations of Sociology. Outstanding maps, graphs, and photos grab students' interest and aid comprehension.

Customer Reviews (31)

Very Pleased
It came in good condition. I am very pleased... I have yet to really need it but it was a requirement for my class there for I had no choice... But It came in fast and was in good condition very promising and I am very pleased. :)

Sociology: A Down-to-Earth Approach (9th Edition) [Hardcover]
Sociology: A Down-to-Earth Approach (9th Edition) [Hardcover]
James M. Henslin
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smells great, and has a nice body :)
i'm just playing, the book is n perfect condition, and i really like using it during my class lectures :)

THANK YOU

GREAT for College Students
I needed this book for a sociology course and I think it is fantastic! The author has done an amazing job to help readers easily relate to the subject and keep it interesting by describing his own experiences & other people's experiences around the world. The definitions are even in boldface & described on the page so that you don't have to keep flipping back to the glossary. The book is informative, yet delightful as the author shows you how to use your sociological imagination & how to open your mind. I'd recommend this book to any person interested in sociology because of how clear & enjoyable it is to read. I've never had so much fun reading a textbook!

Sociology book
I loved how the book came in before the expected date! the book looked brand new! i recommend this seller to anyone! :) ... Read more

Product Description
The only textbook that helps students makemicro-macro connections, Introduction toSociology helps students uncover thesurprising links between everyday life andglobal change.The Seventh Edition does notsimply compare the United States to othercountries, but shows students how globalprocesses play out in their lives. Drawing onresearch from both macro and micro sociology,the author team shows how sociologists bring the two together to give a comprehensive picture ofmodern society.

Customer Reviews (20)

Intro to Sociology
The shimpment was prompt and we are very happy with the book."Thank you".

introduction to sociology
This was the right book for the class and it came arrived in wonderful time.This is a buyer that i would go through again.

Quick and great condition!
I needed this book for my Sociology class this semester. This book arrived early and it was in great condition upon arrival!I will definitely buy from this seller again : ) Amazon rocks!

Great - fast delivery!Book in great shape
I think the title said it all.The seller was great in sending the text immediately.Thanks to him the book was here on the day the class started!

Introduction to Sciology (Seventh Edition)
Easy to read. Concise information presented in logical succession and format. Useful graphs and diagrams to complement reading. ... Read more

Product Description
Henslin's best-selling brief paperback text shares the excitement of sociology-its acclaimed "down-to-earth" approach and personal writing style highlight the sociology of everyday life and its relevance to students' lives.This text is a brief version of the highly regarded hardcover introductory text, Sociology: A Down-to-Earth Approach, 7/e. The essential 15 chapters cover all of the topics in the 22-chapter text, and retain the dual emphases on micro and macro (individual and structural) sociology. James Henslin has a unique ability to engage students without talking down to them or sacrificing content. With wit, personal reflection, and illuminating examples, he shares with readers a passion for sociology unmatched by any other introductory text. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (38)

Colin's Library Essentials of Sociology
I am very happy with the condition of the book and how quickly the book was shipped! I would recommend this to anyone. Thank You.

Sucks
I have waited over a week just for my order to ship. It still has yet to do so.

Essentials of Sociology: A down to earth approach
Henslin really presents the material in a very easy to understand format. I especially like his shared experiences and examples. In this way, he is able to enhance the point he is trying to get across.

GREAT SERVICE !
I was very pleased with the book I ordered.I received the wrong book at first but was send the right book the next day. Will for sure order from them again.

mediocre
I was required to buy this book for a soc class; I really don't recommend it for anyone wanting to go remotely in depth.As another reviewer noted, this would make better reading for someone in highschool. Aside from that it seems fine for a low level survey course.If you are looking to do personal study, you could find much better material. ... Read more

Product Description
Accessible and up-to-date, the Seventh Edition of SOCIOLOGY IN OUR TIMES: THE ESSENTIALS, Seventh Edition, builds on the best of previous editions while offering new insights, learning tools, and opportunities to apply the content of each chapter to relevant sociological issues of the twenty-first century. Acclaimed in the field for her book's groundbreaking integration of race, class, and gender issues, Kendall continues her focus on diversity and inequality, emphasizing social consciousness and active participation in bettering the world around us. Compelling examples, a vivid writing style, and chapter themes grounded in timely social issues already familiar to readers get them involved in sociology and show them how they can make a difference in their own communities. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (16)

What THE HECK!
I still haven't received my book, nor have i got any money back. I don't know whats going on with it. But I am starting to get a little pissed off!

service
i wouldnt recommend buying anything from this seller. they are unreliable and your product probably will not even be sent to you even if your payment has gone through. i ordered a book weeks ago and it still has failed to be shipped.

Good book condition, fast shipment
I received this book this morning and very happy about it :d the book is total in good condition :D just like new :D and fast shipment also

Excellent
The seller was honest and shipped fast on the product. No complaints here! Thank You!

pleased
Only complaint is the binding is a little torn, but its paperback so can't really expect too much. Great buy! ... Read more

Product Description
For thirty-five years and through thirteen editions, Jim Henslin's Down to Earth Sociology has opened new windows onto the social realities that shape our world. Now in its fourteenth edition, the most popular anthology in sociology includes new articles on our changing world while also retaining its classic must-read essays. Focusing on social interaction in everyday life, the forty-six selections bring students face-to-face with the twin projects of contemporary sociology: understanding the individual's experience of society and analyzing social structure.

The fourteenth edition's exceptional new readings include selections on the role of sympathy in everyday life, mistaken perceptions of the American family, the effects of a criminal record on getting a job, and the major social trends affecting our future. Together with these essential new articles, the selections by Peter Berger, Herbert Gans, Erving Goffman, Donna Eder, Zella Luria, C. Wright Mills, Deborah Tannen, Barrie Thorne, Sidney Katz, Philip Zimbardo, and many others provide firsthand reporting that gives students a sense of "being there." Henslin also explains basic methods of social research, providing insight into how sociologists explore the social world. The selections in Down to Earth Sociology highlight the most significant themes of contemporary sociology, ranging from the sociology of gender, power, politics, and religion to the contemporary crises of racial tension, crime, rape, poverty, and homelessness. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Great resource!!!
Too often when you read a textbook it can be very dry and boring.That is not the case with this book.It is easy to read and there are a lot of great case studies to review.Very informative.I would highly recommend this book to anyone interesting in learning more about sociology.

Down to Earth Sociology
I purchased Down to Earth Sociology having taken sociology 101 in college and wanting to refresh myself on the basic concepts and issues.

Positive:
1) There were some very interesting articles included in the edition
2) Varied examples of research types

Negative:
1) The editor's (Henslin's) writing style is annoyingly repetitive.Re-iterates his own statements multiple times in a short section; if I can understand research papers in the topic you don't have to dumb down the intros of them for me.
2) No counter-arguments to any of the articles leaves reader frustrated.Henslin introduces papers without any criticism.
3) Organization of articles in sections not completely logical

In summary, Down to Earth Sociology is worth reading in a classroom setting but not the best book to get if you're trying to introduce yourself to the subject of sociology.

Much more interesting than your standard textbook
I bought this book for my Sociology class and ended up enjoying almost every article I read in it. This is the book that made me change my major to Sociology. I highly recommend this for anybody even slightly interested in the subject.

Down to Earth Sociology book
This book is required for my Sociology class.I ordered it via Amazon.com and received it in about a week.I got it just in time for my next class.Most readings so far are very interesting. Good readings.

good
It's not that much cheaper than what they sell in the college book store. but it's in good condition ... Read more

Product Description
The new edition of Sociology helps students take Sociology with them on campus, in their careers, and in their communities.

While still maintaining its well-balanced coverage of the 3 perspectives, this new revision has a strong focus on encouraging the student to think about their world with a sociological imagination.Through its strong coverage of globalization, race and ethnicity, careers in sociology and current topics like mass media and social policy, Sociology provides students with knowledge they can use at school, at work, in their neighborhoods, and in the global community. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

satisfied customer
October 22,2010
I had ordered the 11th addition of this book but it was within the delivery date.I cancelled the book and ordered the correct addition from another company. The book arrived today in perfect condition. I am happy with the service I received.

Kinda disappointed
I couldve bought the book new for 120 dollars but i bought it used online. There was nothing in the order saying that it had been marked it. all of the pages have some mark on them. if it had been highlighter it wouldnt have been a big deal but it was done in pen and alot of the sentences have lines through them and you cant read some of them. but i did get it the next day.

College textbook
This seems to be a very good textbook. Covers the material well with lots of examples for comprehension.

Sociology
I received my book in a timely manner. It was in good condition. I was very happy with my purchase.

Excellent condition
I am a first time college student and was skeptical about ordering a used book online. I was very pleased. The book looks brand new. No markings, no ripped pages or anything like that. Will definitely use theis seller for all my book purchases.


THANKS!!!!! ... Read more

Product Description
Readings for Sociology provides students with engaging selections that reveal the complexities of our social world and offer insights into sociological analysis. With over 20% of the selections new to the book, Readings for Sociology includes work from popular and academic journals as well as lively book excerpts. While Readings for Sociology is comprehensive in its scope, offering a wide range of selections on the standard topics in the introductory course, the new edition features several essays on the sociology of food and the environment. The book also continues to emphasize coverage globalization; social inequality; and race, class, and gender. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Great readings
As a reader, Massey has a ton of variety in his selection of articles. Many of them kept my interest, which - as a college student - isn't that easy to keep. Interesting viewpoints in articles too.

Nice selections.Great editing
There are some good readings in here.I believe that some of them have been edited down for content, which works.For a book that I had to read it is pretty enjoyable. ... Read more

Product Description
This lucid book presents the discipline of sociology to both the general reader and the student. Viewing sociology in the humanist tradition, Berger points out its affinity to history and philosophy, as well as its need for scientific procedures. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

Great Sociology
A great, down-to-earth approach to Sociology.A must read for all Intro to Sociology college students.

not bad
book was in pretty good condition..the front cover did appear to have what looked like dry boogers on it though but overall it was in good shape and cheap too

Great intro!
I teach a course in the sociology of education to master's students from a broad range of majors.Few if any have been introduced to sociology as a discipline that might have value, even changing the way they view the world.

Berger's text, though now in print for forty-five years, remains the best introductory text available.The first five chapters are priceless, demonstrating that not all of human behavior can be reduced to psychology or social psychology or strength of will, but that institutions -- structured social practices -- are at work at all levels, determining not just what we do but who we are, as well.

As with all his work, Berger's prose style is impeccable: easy to read but not dumbed-down.He writes like the cosmopolitan intellectual that he is, and students appreciate his sophistication.(With a bit of forewarning, they forgive him his archaic references to computer punch cards and other anachronisms.)

After students have read Invitation to Sociology, they are less likely to engage in victim-blaming, both for others and for themselves.They acknowledge instead that social contexts vary in ways that demonstrably provide advantages to some while diminishing the prospects of others.Social determinism becomes real, something that they can see for themselves.

Remarkably, some are able to see that free will may be a convenient fiction, something we use to get through the day in a way that makes the world seem sensible.Social determinism, however, works its will whether we recognize it or not.

Let's hope this book never goes out of print.

One of the most important sociology books
It wasn't until after I majored in sociology that I actually got around to reading the works of Perter L. Berger, although I had studied many works citing his, and Thomas Luckmann. This book is in my opinion the very best introduction to sociology I have read. Berger has a unique ability to articulate the fundamentals of sociology, the "sociological perspective" that has often been misunderstood and underappreciated in the world of the social sciences. This book is important to read by anyone in the social science fields, either sociology, psychology etc. Even if you have studied sociology extensively already, this book is still worth reading. Berger's dialectic theory of social reality construction is explicated, and also he discusses implications like existentialism of Sartre and other philosophical issues. A great book overall!! I also suggest his other books too, they are all great!

Uncomplete review from some years back
Each new sociology student must read this book during his or her first year into the discipline, and each sociologist must read this book (or the notes he made in the past about it) once every couple years. Peter Berger wrote one of the most compelling treatises into a social science, bridging theme with emotion, intellectual associations, nice metaphors and analogies and a wealth of humor.

The first chapter ("Sociology as an individual pastime") stands alone as an excellent introduction to the science of society. Berger invites us here to a party where the sociologist meets with a plethora of intellectuals and finally succeeds to transcend as a different and respectable member of the scientific community. If something, this chapter alone is worth the reading of the book. Shoots at the American academy coherent with Berger's (and ours) admiration for Thosrtein Veblen are combined with an un-dissimulated hate for all complete non-critical systems of belief, including organized religion, 20th Century communism, free-market capitalism and psychoanalysis. The tendencies known in the field at the start of the sixties are only deepened now, and so the critical words Berger throws at statistical reductionism are completely current: "in science as in love a concentration on technique is quite likely to lead to impotence" [p.13]. What there isn't to love in that?

At the same time Berger is preoccupied to maintain values and beliefs far from the scientific logic of a social science. How you can be a humanist if your values must be maintained outside of your field of competence? Well, sociology teaches us about the relativity of institutions. Freedom is considered to be inscrutable to science, but given the sociological perspective, it can be reached. So sociological thought is indispensable for the possibility of a free existence, and so becomes humanist in front of the supposedly unbreakable laws of social reality. Given that this is only a "perspective", this knowledge about society could also be used against or fellow men, and Berger is completely aware of that in an epoch so close to the age of totalitarism. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Slow Del
It took almost 3 1/2 weeks to get to me. The book was in ok shape but not as great as they claimed. But hey at least it showed up

AMAZING DEAL
this product cost other people over a hundred dollars. i got it for $5. i was so amazed at the great quality of the book. DEFINETLY BUYING FROM SELLER AGAIN!!!! <3

older but still relevant
i dont get why people buy the new edition of books when the old editions are basically the same thing!
i got this and its exactly the same thing as the new edition my co-students paid a hundred bucks for. the only difference was the cover. i love this book. i always buy the older editions bcuz theres no way im paying over a hundred bucks at the school bookstore for the same book i can get for 5.00

Sociogoly textbook
As far as textbooks go, this one is pretty good.The chapter divisions break the material down into manageable sections.Each chapter reinforces the ideas of the different sociological concepts studied, so that it's hard not to begin to pick up the concepts of each.
My only complaint is that the author seems to have the idea that all students using this textbook are going to be young people just out of high school.Many of his comments leave out non-traditional students.The median age of students at my college is 35.When the author does a revision of this textbook (And you know he will!) he should make sure he considers his audience closely.

Sociology:A Brief Intoduction
I truly enjoyed the class.The book is broken down to simple details.It explain fully what sociology is and what it is all about.The exams after every chapter is a great tool and the information sticks to you. ... Read more

Product Description
Richard T. Schaefer's Sociology Matters is a concise introduction to the discipline of sociology. Its straightforward style, streamlined design, and highly focused coverage make it the perfect affordable, ultra brief, introductory text for instructors who use a variety of materials in their course. The new fourth edition includes new chapter opening vignettes and up to date coverage of current topics such as the Virginia Tech shooting and the use of virtual networks such as Facebook. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

nice book
this book was in perfect condition and is easy to read. the concepts are written in a straight forward way, which is very appriciated

Thanks : )
I just received it brand new, great packaging, no marks. Fast delivery (7 days) with the super saver shipping. This is the 2nd time I order something and amazon never fails to do what they promise. Great book I need it for a class.

GREAT BOOK
New book that came with great packaging. Received it pretty quickly with no flaws at all.

Highlighting
Has a lot of highlighted text. Other than that the book is in good condition. Didn't come as quick as I expected it to.

Thanks!!
Great customer service. Responded to email immediately and book was received in great condition and well packaged. Will buy from again! ... Read more

Product Description
The first authoritative yet accessible guide to this broad and popular topic

Sociology is the study of human and societal interaction, and because society is constantly changing, sociology will always remain a crucial and relevant subject. Sociology For Dummies helps you understand this complex field, serving as the ideal study guide both when you're deciding to take a class as well as when you are already participating in a course.

• Provides a general overview of what sociology in as well as an in-depth look at some of the major concepts and theories
• Offers examples of how sociology can be applied and its importance to everyday life

Avoiding jargon, Sociology For Dummies will get you up to speed on this widely studied topic in no time. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Sociology Basics
As are other books in this series, the "Dummies" marketing tool is misleading. I teach Sociology and this book provides important analysis of the basics in the field. The writing style is engaging not like a text.From here, we can go deeper like reading something by Peter Berger (Invitation of Sociology) or struggle through a text of some 400 pages. Probably not for the Ivy League undergraduate; at the same time, for the 400-550 SAT student or someone wanting to understand society and our role in it, a great start. If my students remembered 30% of what is in this book, they would be doing great...and if they could apply the information to their own life, they would have insight and be a more interesting and engaging human being. Recommend Psychology for Dummies also. Between the two of these books, you've basically covered the most important theories and principles in both of these related disciplines.

Excellent for academic and personal knowledge
I wanted to take time and add my five stars to this dandy little book. By all means buy it and read it if your interest is sociology. It treats its subject fairly enough. It's a great introduction to sociology. I strongly recommend this book to sociology students before their first class. Read it twice and return to it. It's a wonderful little book. Be sure to read Marx, Weber, and Durkheim's original work, but read this first.
Eddie Evans
Crime Scene Cleanup

Thorough and Substantive, Yet Reader-Friendly
Don't let the "for Dummies" moniker mislead you into thinking you'll only be getting a watered-down "Reader's Digest" version of sociology. "Sociology for Dummies" is a thorough and substantive overview of the subject, from my perspective, yet it maintains a personable and reader-friendly tone throughout. Gabler presents both the certainties and uncertainties of the study of social life, and explains complex ideas in elegant, straightforward ways. I'm not a sociologist but I've read several introductory textbooks in the subject area. "Sociology for Dummies" is by far the best of them for newcomers to the field.

Hoping it willhelp me pass my class.
This book was informative and helpful and now that I have read it I'm looking forword to class next fall and putting myknowledge to ues in the classroom. I will consider returning to this title of books in the future if I do not want to go into a class not knowing anything about the subject i will be studying. ... Read more

Product Description
The most relevant textbook for today’s students, The Real World succeeds in classrooms because it focuses on the perspective that students care about most—their own.The Real World shows students how personally relevant sociology can be with a clever mix of popular culture, everyday life, and extensive student activities. Professors describe the book as “hip and accessible,” and students love the authors’ contemporary examples and emphasis on students’ experiences.

The Real World is the only book to integrate Data Workshops into every chapter, giving students an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the practice of sociology. New to the Second Edition are “Theory in Everyday Life” tables, which apply key sociological theories to real life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

the book was a great purchase, the delivery time and the delivery method is a big lie i didnt get the book on time.
the book was in exelent condition there i no complain about the book, the only problem was that the book was delibered after 2 week of purchase no email to notify the reason of the dlay, even the form of deliver paid was two to three days.

Good book!
Well I purchased this book for school, so I didn't choose it, but the reading is easy to understand and it makes good comments about recent themes. The bookcover is paperback, but a good material. The item arrived in excellent conditions.

My recentbook purchase
I have been very pleased with my purchase from amazon- My recent purchase wasdelivered fast, efficient and the book was in great shape! Better than I expected.

Wonderful!
I recieved my book very quickly and it was in even better condition than I had thought.I thought it was new until I saw some highlighting inside. Great experience!Thank you!!

This textbook is easy to read and easy to understand.
The Real World, 2nd Ed. was a phenomenal read for being a textbook. The material is so current and easy to relate to. Examples such as the television show, The Hills, are awesome. The studies and statistics are up to date. The material isn't just there, it is presented in a way that makes it nearly impossible to not understand a concept. If you need this for a class, you will most likely be pleasantly surprised. ... Read more

Product Description
This mainstream book is characterized by its superior scholarship, accessible writing style, unmatched coverage of diversity, and unparalleled, integrated technology resources. Treating diversity as central to the rich fabric of our society, the authors include research and data that illustrate how class, race-ethnicity, gender, age, geographic residence, and sexual orientation relate to the topics covered. Speaking to students in a friendly and inviting way, the authors encourage them to think globally, question commonly held beliefs, assess different perspectives used by sociologists, and to use this process to understand the forces that generate change and continuity in our society. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Terrible, terrible, terrible
This was the worst experience I've ever had with online book ordering. I ordered a textbook for my son and it never arrived. When I contacted the seller they were absolutely NOT helpful. I'm STILL waiting to be reimbursed and had to get amazon involved. I also was forced to purchase the textbook from the college bookstore at a higher cost. Don't order form this seller you will NOT be happy!!

Not so happy
I ordered the book.Somehow it was not emphasized that this was the STUDY GUIDE to the text book.My college attending son didn't need the study guide.He needed the text book.Okay, so I made an error.Turned out to be a costly one too.I sent the book back just as instructed.The book had not been used or written in .... in any way.I was given less than half of my money back.I can understand my having to pay the shipping back, maybe even paying a small restocking fee but to pay over $44.00 plus shipping on a book and receive $18 dollars and change in return simply does not feel like sound business practices to me.My advice be careful what you order and from who.

The Best Intro Sociology Text for Professors and Students
I write this as a professor, but it wasn't too long I was an student in Professor Taylor's class. He was and is a wonderful professor. This textbook is well written, thoughtful, and deep without ever becoming dull or hard to read. It would be excellent to teach from. Complicated sociology concepts are presented in a clear fashion and applied to everyday life in a fascinating (and even fun) way that bring me back to the joys of Professor Taylor's sociology class. Andersen and Taylor's passion, intellect, and love for their students comes through in every chapter.

Not my cup of tea.
It has a substantial bias, however what sociology book won't?Still worked well for the intro soc class I'm taking.

Boring, Boring, Boring
While some of the information is useful, this is essentially that nightmare of textbooks with which all of us are at some time or another saddled: a fascinating subject presented in the most dry, uninteresting and monotonous fashion possible.If you're into that kind of book, indulge in some stale crackers and brackish water as this book lobotomizes you page by page by page. ... Read more

Product Description
Highly respected for its scholarship and straightforward approach, Sociology: The Core covers core sociological concepts with a brief and accessible presentation at an affordable price.In the ninth edition, Sociology once again comes alive as a vital and exciting field to relate sociological principles to real-world circumstances.New “What Can Sociology Do For You?” sections introduce the careers and provide educational recommendations for students that decide to pursue a degree in Sociology. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Love this class
Using this book for class.It is very well written, far to enjoyable to read for a textbook.

Scociology: The Core
Buying books for my two kids in college saves me a lot of money.It's fast and easy to order.I like shopping through Amazon.

Sociology: The Core
I needed this item for a sociology class.I ordered it.It quickly arrived, as promised.It was the correct book for the course, and it was in excellent condition.

It is Not a Brand-New book that it claims. Sold By Amazon.!!!
I'm so disappointed in Amazon that Claims that This book "Sociology: The Core" is New. However, It's Not obviously. The book has Hight-lighted at a Page, which is Green. I've paid for $48.18 for it. And what I've gotten is A Used?? Really??? It should be indicated condition "like new", or "good" ect. instead of NEW. I got to say:" Amazon, whoever works there, you should Not treat Customers like this. We know which one is New, and which one is Used. We are not STUPID. -_-

A great book for a college class
This book covers the fundamentals and outlines them at the end of each chapter and has sections that ask questions and makes the reader think. It isn't all boring text either, there are a decent amount of pictures and graphs, some used quite effectively to demonstrate a point. Overall I felt it was non-bias and covered all sides of the topics and explored them in non-conventional ways. As an engineering student I surprised myself and really enjoyed this book. ... Read more

Product Description
This revised edition of Tischler's INTRODUCTION TO SOCIOLOGY continues a tradition of providing a proven and comprehensive textbook to students and professors at a lower, very reasonable price. With its built in study guide, practice tests, and available access to SociologyNow, no other textbook on the market provides students with a complete suite of study aids at an affordable price as INTRODUCTION TO SOCIOLOGY.Tischler is known for providing full coverage of sociological concepts in a student-friendly manner, and threading two basic ideas throughout the text- 1) sociology is a rigorous, scientific discipline and 2) a basic knowledge of sociology is essential for understanding social interaction in many work and social settings. Each chapter progresses from a specific to a general analysis of society - each part introducing increasingly comprehensive factors necessary for a broad-based understanding of social organization. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Book review
Received book in great condition and within the time frame expected. Would definately use them again.

My used sociology book
My book arrived in excellent condition. I intend to purchase all of my nursing books that I can from this site.

schoolo book
Actually: I did not buy this bookOur 4th child did they needed it for a college class and you guys had it a lot cheaper than they could get it at the book store and yes they are very happy with the book and the condition it is inthanks a bunch for your help

Sociology Book
Arrived 3 days after latest mentioned date.I know it's bratty to expect something to be guaranteed,but I'm a college student and I needed this pretty badly.Said it'd take from a week to three,but it took like a month or so.And to think I'd have gotten it shipped faster had I been home-- which is 5000+ miles farther away from Hawaii,and on an obscure island too.I usually get it a week later back home in Saipan.I don't know really, but if you expect to get your stuff as fast, I say order as soon as possible..and be very,very patient.

I had a pleasant and simple experience
I ordered the book, and a few days later, I recieved the book. Nothing complicated. It was way cheaper than the bookstore book, So basically Im happy. I experienced no complications. I would order from this person again. Oh yeah and the book was in a good condition, very few highlighting, no missing pages, no bent pages. ... Read more

Product Description
This best-selling comprehensive book conveys the relevance of sociology by including a timely collection of theories, research, and examples, including its signature first-person accounts that open chapters. Experiences represented in the chapter openers accurately mirror the richness and complexity of society itself while also establishing the themes that are carried throughout the chapters. The author's vivid, inviting writing style, emphasis on applications, eye for the most compelling current examples, and use of assignable photo-essays and companion video engages readers and further highlights sociology relevance to all students. Kendall's text is acclaimed in the field for being the first textbook to integrate race, class, and gender issues, and for its thorough presentation of sociological theory, including contemporary perspectives such as feminism and postmodernism. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

A Politically Correct Waste of Time
I have taught sociology for over 30 years and for the last ten have been forced to use the evolving editions of this text.The best I can say for it is that it's not a lot worse than most textbooks--which are essentially written by committees and marketing departments--and unfortunately probably does represent the field accurately.

The core problem with his book though, and the field, is that its latent master value is equality, modified by a little self-serving credentialism.Anytime anyone is found to be unequal, the implicit cry is "Injustice!"Well, not so fast.There are plenty of instances in which inequalities are unjust, but no doubt plenty that are just.It doesn't seem to dawn on this author that equality is not the sole criterion of justice.Of course, ever so subtly the text implies that some inequalities are just.You never get the sense that she feels that she shouldn't get paid more than the average person or that the publisher of this text shouldn't wildly overprice it.I guess it's OK for liberal elites to do better than the rest, though besides them I suppose people ought to be equal.

This equality silliness is especially pronounced in the author's feminism.She is constantly changing the subject to women.For instance, she gives two short paragraphs on the Enlightenment (which is actually kind of important) though--Guess what?--one paragraph is about "women in the Enlightenment."Well, you can ask about women in the Enlightenment if you want to--but then you could ask about slaves too (which she doesn't).Students who have never heard of the Enlightenment come away from from her discussion assuming that the biggest issue at that time was whether women's opinions were heard.Sorry, that wasn't the biggest issue, and the text basically distorts history to say it was.Worse, later when she runs through the issues of group conformity, she shifts without explanation to the issue of obedience to authority, and then omits versions of those experiments that linked them to group conformity.(I suspect she was copying from the Maciones text, which included the relevant versions of the experiments, but didn't bother with them because she didn't follow the developing argument.)Anyway, after thoroughly mangling the presentation, she then lands on an experiment that "proves" men will sexual harass women if the conditions are conducive to it.For all I know, this was a decent experiment and the findings sound, but it is obvious to me that she is in such a rush to get to the sexual harassment study that she overlooked other studies that logically led to it.

There are other examples, but the author is always in such a rush to make her feminist points that she frequently screws up other things along the way.My guess though is that sociology doesn't attract the "best and the brightest" (a documented fact) and is increasingly attracting so many women that the field has darn near become a wing of Women's Studies.

I also do not like many of the chapter examples she uses.The example in the first chapter about credit cards is not well done, and a lot of students end up thinking that sociology and economics are roughly the same thing. It's just a weak example, poorly presented.

And, she never gives any evidence of intellectual ability--or of having done her homework.Despite way too many pages, she can never seem to develop a point to its culmination.C. Wright Mills is half-presented in the first chapter, and when she discusses cultural relativism she concludes that it is fine as long as it doesn't violate human rights--giving no hint that human rights are themselves contested.Oh, and in that discussion she wrongly uses Marvin Harris' work as an illustration of cultural relativism, when in fact it is an argument for cultural materialism.Later, she contrasts Kenneth Jackson's history of suburbs with someone else's, but gets Jackson wrong.It is probably the nature of the beast that textbook authors can't read most of the sources they cite, but this woman has a remarkable ability to be wrong about the works she discusses as well as a surprising knack to miss any important idea that might be in them.This text is a quintessential example of how you really can't simplify material without changing it.

Now, a lot of my criticisms would apply to other texts, and probably no text is ever really good.This is an inherent problem with textbooks.However, having used perhaps a dozen different textbooks over the years, I would have to say that this ranks toward the bottom.I haven't followed the textbook field, so don't know the popular choices now, but the Maciones text that I believe cornered the market prior to this one was better.

Let me add that I say all this as a sociologist, a liberal, and a feminist.I probably agree with the author's opinions 90% of the time, and must reluctantly agree that this text probably accurately reflects the sorry state of the discipline.However, the text just does a poor job at teaching about ideas, issues, and facts in a thought-provoking way.It's really a politically correct waste of time and money for anyone with a head on their shoulders.

Good Purchase
Used book needed for school. Decent price and in decent condition. Saved over 100 dollars vice buying it used from the book store on campus

A weak text
I must agree with other reviewers - this is not a very good text for teaching or learning Sociology. It only served to reinforce the stereotype that Sociology is not a rigorous discipline, let alone a science - and that is not true at all.

Each chapter has a "recurring theme" which is used to tie together the various disparate subjects. That would be great, except for two things: firstly, an effective example is one that isn't contrived or stretched, and secondly, it should not be necessary in the first place to "tie together" the chapter with such things. A chapter's contents ought to all relate implicitly - it ought to make logical sense why certain material was included. I understand that the "let's tell a story first and then relate all the material to it as we go along" idea is sort of trendy now, but I have seen a number of textbooks where that worked, and this certainly isn't one of them.

In other grievances, the material is just lacking in general. I am not an expert on Sociology, and I am aware this is not necessarily a fair comparison - but when I read, say, my Psycology textbooks, I am actually drawn in and interested. I want to keep reading. Though I am but a student, I can tell that the book is going fairly in-depth to the subject matter - I'm not just getting superficial "factoids" or an overview. In contrast, this textbook is pretty boring, and I am left with nagging questions about almost all of the subjects covered. Why are they important? Where is the research? Some of these things seem like common sense, sure, but other surprises are just given at face value with no explanation. It also seemed like a disproportionate amount of time was spent parading about the names and biographies of famous sociologists. That is all well and good, but I wanted to learn about Sociology, not sociologists...

Finally, I am aware that the average college freshman has a reading level of about eighth grade...but I do not appreciate my textbooks "talking down" to me. I guess that would have to be my biggest issue: it reads like a high school or even middle school textbook, definitely not college-level like I expect and deserve. I absolutely despise textbooks which are stuffed with "activity corners" or whatever they call them - those attention-grabbing, colorful distractions which take up half a page to show how the material at hand is applicable to some totally irrelevant subject. Supposedly these boxes are made to show to students how the subject is relevant to their daily lives, but they honestly get in the way of learning, and this text in particular is chock-full of them. It was a rare instance where I could read two full pages of unabridged, unadultered text with no annoying photograph, info box, or other "fluff" getting in the way.

The only reason I have not returned this book is because at the end of the day, if I just read it as a novel - for entertainment! - it is vaguely interesting. Much like a taboloid or Newsweek Magazine, I suppose.

Sociology in Our Times
The book arrived in great condition a little over a week after I ordered it. I am very satisfied with this seller.

last minute rush for college textbooks using Amazon sellers worked out great!
seller was excellent - product was as described, priced well for college student's financial constraints, and SHIPPED VERY QUICKLY which was the most important factor since the book was ordered after the first class. thanks! ... Read more

Product Description

Adapted from Henslin’s best-selling comprehensive text, Core Concepts provides in-depth coverage of ten high-priority topics that are the foundation of many introductory sociology courses.

This unique paperback offers a concise and economical format without sacrificing depth of coverage. Unlike a “brief” or “essentials” text, the ten chapters that make up Core Concepts are not edited down from a longer book. Instead, they provide full coverage of those topics that instructors emphasize the most in a one-semester or one-term introductory sociology course. Like Henslin’s other texts, it features the author's familiar “down-to-earth” approach and personal writing style that highlight the sociology of everyday life. With wit, personal reflection, and illuminating examples, Henslin shares with readers a passion for sociology unmatched by any other introductory text.

Customer Reviews (12)

Book
shipping was ok. the reading wasn't that difficult and this book seemed to do an ok job conveying its message.

Quality
a very good textbook thats came quickly and in perfect quality i have no complaints!

Fast service
I got the book in less than a week and it was in GOOD condition.I was a little skeptical about buying a USED book without looking at it, but it was in the condition stated.

Perfect and beyond
This was ten times better than the description. I love it. Amazing seller and a great product. HIGHLY recommended! Thank you! Such good prices!

when you order,its because you NEED the book.
I ordered the book and got a confirmation. Several days later, after all the used books were sold from the book store I got a notice that the seller did not have the book in stock. It was too late to order on line again, as my duaghter needed the book. I had to scour campus to try and find the book used,as new it was very expensive. I had to pay twice as much for a used one that I swould have had to pay on line.
Yes I hate this deal...... ... Read more