The social sciences routinely debate questions of society, and of the relationship between individuals and the social world in which we live. Some contemporary debates have a long history, and others are expressed differently in the age of new technologies and the Internet.

This book offers an introduction to some of these key debates, and to the ways of thinking and dealing with them the social sciences employ. It introduces important concepts which promote understanding of discussions including those on identity, citizenship, social divisions, consumption and class, gender, race and ethnicity, the role of the media and the impact of globalization.

This student-friendly book, including boxed material, examples and illustrations, fills the gap in the market for an introductory text on the social sciences. It will greatly interest students wishing to bridge the gap between Access courses or A levels and social science degrees, and those who are considering studying the social sciences at undergraduate level and who want to know more about what might be involved.