Addressing such questions as "What is sociology? “and ”How does one “do” sociology?," this beginner's guide offers a cogent sketch of the sociologist's worldview. Using contemporary examples, this introduction discusses the methods sociologists use and examines the reciprocal relationship sociology has with society—its prime subject. Containing chapters on sociology's place in the academy, the “sociological imagination,” and the nexus of sociology and biology, this new edition includes added material on terrorism, globalisation, identity, and the Internet, making it essential preliminary reading for new students of sociology.

A fully revised fourth edition of this widely used student primer. What is sociology? How do you 'do' sociology? Starting sociology can be daunting. This user-friendly introduction takes the reader on a quest towards a sociological understanding of the world we live in. Using contemporary examples, The Sociological Quest asks what is distinctive about the way sociologists view society. Evan Willis shows that they are concerned with the relationship between the individual and society, and that a sociological analysis involves an approach which is historical, cultural, structural and critical.