Social Institutions

Education: A Very Short Introduction

Second Edition

Gary Thomas

9780198859086
Paperback
23 September 2021

Very Short Introductions

This new edition explores how and why education has evolved as it has, examining the ways in which it has responded over the centuries to influences in politics, philosophy, and the social sciences. Focussing on education today, it considers the controversies over progressive versus formal teaching, and also examines education worldwide.

Sociology: A Very Short Introduction

Second Edition

Steve Bruce

9780198822967
Paperback
27 September 2018

Very Short Introductions

From politics to education, work, crime, and religion this Very Short Introduction discusses some of the core considerations of contemporary sociologists. Exploring the tension between the individual's place in society and society's role in shaping the individual, it demonstrates the value of sociology for understanding the modern world.

Universities and Colleges: A Very Short Introduction

David Palfreyman, Paul Temple

9780198766131
Paperback
28 December 2017

Very Short Introductions

This book looks at the role of the university in a social and economic context, as a repository of knowledge and a site for instruction. It considers how universities are founded,, funded, governed, lead, and managed, how the advent of increased fees has affected their relationship with students, and what is in the future for higher education.

Freemasonry: A Very Short Introduction

Andreas Önnerfors

9780198796275
Paperback
24 August 2017

Very Short Introductions

Freemasonry is one of the oldest and most widespread voluntary organizations in the world. Andreas Önnerfors sorts the facts from the colourful fictions surrounding this organization and outlines how the organization works, its rituals and symbols, its values, and the work it does in modern society.

Ageing: A Very Short Introduction

Nancy A. Pachana

9780198725329
Paperback
24 November 2016

Very Short Introductions

Ageing entails lifelong dynamic changes in biological, psychological, and social functioning. While such changes in later adulthood were somewhat neglected by scientists in the past, recent decades have seen a marked increase in research in this area. Nancy A. Pachana examines the impact of rising numbers of older people worldwide.

Work: A Very Short Introduction

Stephen Fineman

9780199699360
Paperback
29 November 2012

Very Short Introductions

Work is deeply embedded in the moral and political character of most societies. For many, work becomes fused with our personal and social identities - who we are and how we define ourselves. Steve Fineman explores the key debates about work and the factors that affect it including topics such as globalization, feminism, and technology.

Organizations: A Very Short Introduction

Mary Jo Hatch

9780199584536
Paperback
24 March 2011

Very Short Introductions

Organization happens in the act of working with others to accomplish a desired future state. It can happen through intentionally designed activity, spontaneous improvisation, or some combination of the two, but it always requires coordinated effort. This Very Short Introduction provides a lively and thought provoking introduction to the topic.