Alexander (sociology, Yale U.) et al. supply students with an introductory textbook on sociology that focuses on trends in contemporary society and real social issues, and contrasts modern and postmodern aspects of social life. Topics are discussed within a framework that highlights historical change and are placed in the perspective of how different contemporary society is compared with earlier times. This edition has a new co-author, Edles (sociology, California State U.-Northridge); new and updated examples from popular culture, current events, and the media; more on new technologies and social media, women, gender, and transgender topics, and gender-related and other inequalities; new coverage of the financial crisis; updated coverage of globalization, crime, health, religion, the changing nature of work, and the role of science and technology; new photos and text boxes; updated tables and figures; and new study questions in each chapter. Annotation ©2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)