Changing Societies

Reviews / Votes

Changing Societies makes one appreciate the relevance of sociology to making sense of the world. This comprehensive book provides a sophisticated yet accessible discussion of the full range of issues addressed by contemporary sociology. Well grounded in theory, the book provides up-to-date research findings on competing and important debates. -- Anne Shlay, Temple University Changing Societies is a marvelous introduction to sociology. It is extremely readable and uses vivid, research-based examples showing how macro, meso, and micro processes interact to shape lives in modern society. -- Mayer Zald, University of Michigan Each chapter, whether about religion or family, the business corporation, or mass communications, is both compelling in its own right and serves as a marker for students to draw a multi-leveled picture of the world. Students will enjoy this textbook and be changed by it. -- Bert Useem, University of New Mexico With Changing Societies, Orum et al., have written an outstanding intro text, building on the classics both old and new, as well as a thorough grounding in the latest research, to give students a window on sociology, through a focus on social change. Clearly written, thoughtful, offering views that are once insightful and yet never predictable, Changing Societies ranks high above the competition. I am happy to recommend adoption, and do so enthusiastically, and with confidence that this book can give beginning students the sense of excitement about sociology that we all seek to transmit. -- Roger Waldinger, distinguished professor of sociology, UCLA Orum, et al. have a creative approach for an introductory text. By using change as their integrating theme, they capture the sociological imagination for the reader. They successfully demonstrate that social actors are simultaneously agents and producers of change. This book is refreshing in its coherence and command of the literature-and the authors have an engaging writing style. -- Frances G. Pestello, University of Dayton