Society In Question

Invasions of introduced species cause varying degrees of harm on the ecosystems in question and it is up to society to deal with the consequences. How can we prevent biological invasions? How can we assess the risk they represent? What can be done to control current invasions? Aware of this problem, the Ministry of Ecology has requested a community of researchers from a variety of disciplines to decipher these questions using biological, sociological and economic approaches. Although the definitive response to the problems raised by invasive species in natural spaces is not provided here, undeniable progress in understanding mechanisms underlying these invasions can shed light on the decisions which have to be taken by environmental managers. Scientists, teachers and students will also find results and thought-processes in this book to supplement their knowledge.

The works of Pierre Bourdieu occupy a central place in the current development of world sociology. This volume offers an accessible but challenging introduction to Bourdieu's ideas. In a series of discussions, lectures and interviews, the range of Bourdieu's ideas is laid out and its relation to other disciplines and other sociological schools is explored. The issues developed include the sociology of culture, leisure and taste; the intrinsic reflexivity of social science; and the role of language in society and social sciences.

"Introduction to Sociology 2e adheres to the scope and sequence of a typical, one-semester introductory sociology course. It offers comprehensive coverage of core concepts, foundational scholars, and emerging theories, which are supported by a wealth of engaging learning materials. The textbook presents detailed section reviews with rich questions, discussions that help students apply their knowledge, and features that draw learners into the discipline in meaningful ways. The second edition retains the book's conceptual organization, aligning to most courses, and has been significantly updated to reflect the latest research and provide examples most relevant to today's students. In order to help instructors transition to the revised version, the 2e changes are described within the preface."--Website of text.

This introductory text presents a unique approach to the examination of sociological principles. It draws you into the material--and encourages a deeper understanding of the discipline--by focusing on such overarching questions as "How do sociologists study society?" "How is society possible?" "Why is there misery in the world?" and "Are human beings free?" You'll learn about the philosophies of classical sociologists such as Marx, Weber, Durkheim, Mead, and Berger, and look at how the field of sociology has approached these questions over the past 150 years. You'll also consider the benefits and drawbacks of globalization, read about how individuals can affect society, and learn how the Tea Party political movement and the revolution in Egypt illustrate social conflict. As you explore sociology's compelling questions, you'll find that there are often no clear and ready answers.