Join the conversation with one of sociology's best-known thinkers.In the fully updated Fourth Editionof Essentials to Sociology, bestselling author George Ritzer shows students the relevance of sociology to their lives. Adapted from Ritzer's Introduction to Sociology, this text provides students with a rock-solid foundation in a shorter and more streamlined format. Students will learn about traditional sociological concepts and theories, as well as some of the most compelling contemporary social phenomena: globalization, consumer culture, the Internet, and the "McDonaldization" of society. Packed with current examples and the latest research of how "public" sociologists are engaging with the critical issues of today, this new edition encourages students to apply a sociological perspective to their worldview--empowering them to participate in a global conversation about current social problems.Also available as a digital option (courseware). Contact your rep to learn more about Essentials of Sociology, Fourth Edition- Vantage Digital Option.