Thinking Sociologically, Second Edition is a conceptual and substantive introduction to the study of sociology. Most textbooks, according to Dr. Goldenberg, are written as encyclopedias of facts that summarize the current state of knowledge on each topic within a discipline. Whilefact-oriented coverage introduces students to the breadth of topics within the field, this approach remains partial and superficial and fails to teach students how to think from a sociological perspective and how to apply this type of critical thinking. Thinking Sociologically includes stimulating illustrative readings that reinforce students' analytical and logical thinking skills while sharpening their sociological imaginations. The author also includes sample questions and answers, and some interesting debates in the field, to demonstrate thetheoretical reasoning and open-minded consideration of the issues that are essential to sound sociological inquiry. Students who have grasped the sociological perspectives and social science methodologies presented in this text will be well prepared to undertake plausible and productivesociological study in any area of interest.

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Sheldon Goldenberg, Professor of Sociology, University of Calgary.