Sociology Author:Richard T. Schaefer, Robert P. Lamm Three basic premises guide this highly successful introductory book: first, that theory and research must be both comprehensive and clear; second, that the text must show how sociology is relevant both to the study of society and to students' lives; and third, that sociology can play a valuable role in teaching critical thinking skills. To that ... more »end, this well-respected text combines a balanced three-perspective approach with excellent student-oriented examples and distinctive social policy sections. - Exciting new chapter openers drawn from sociological writings convey the excitement and relevance of sociological inquiry. - "Think About It" caption features encourage students to think critically about information presented in maps, graphs and tables. - "Imagine" sections within each chapter ask students to use a sociological imagination to figure out how major concepts and issues apply to their own lives.« less