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The ninth 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. New to the edition is the inclusion of an adaptive diagnostic tool and interactivities to help students master key concepts. Salient Features The most balanced and accessible coverage of the three perspectives (functional/structuralist, conflict, interactionist) on the market. The perspectives are discussed throughout the text. Social Policy sections which connect sociology to the real world are a hallmark feature of the book Best coverage of race and ethnicity in an Introductory text Emphasis on cross-cultural and global content throughout the text Scientific emphasis with thorough and current research coverage, including Research In Action feature and separate research methods chapter Unique chapter on Mass Media About the Author Richard T. Schaefer Growing up in Chicago at a time when neighbourhoods were going through transitions in ethnic and racial composition, Richard T. Schaefer found himself increasingly intrigued by what was happening, how people were reacting, and how these changes were affecting neighbourhoods and people?s jobs. His interest in social issues caused him to gravitate to sociology courses at Northwestern University, where he eventually received a B.A. in sociology. Table of Contents 1 Understanding Sociology 2 Sociological Research 3 Culture 4 Socialization and the Life Course 5 Social Interaction, Groups, and Social Structure 6 The Mass Media 7 Deviance and Social Control 8 Stratification and Social Mobility in the United States 9 Global Inequality 10 Racial and Ethnic Inequality 11 Stratification by Gender 12 The Family and Intimate Relationships 13 Religion and Education 14 Government and the Economy 15 Health and the Environment 16 Social Change in the Global Community