Sociology Books

Explore the depths of human society and social behaviour in our extensive Sociology section. From theories and structures, to issues of globalisation and inequality, our selection offers insightful reads for both casual learners and seasoned sociologists. Delve into pivotal works that examine the narratives shaping our societies today.

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The Cleanest Race: How North Koreans See Themselves and Why It Matters
B.R. Myers | Melville House

The Cleanest Race: How North Koreans See Themselves and Why It Matters

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Goodreads rating: 3.9

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If you're someone who's puzzled by North Korea's enigmatic presence on the world stage, "The Cleanest Race" by B.R. Myers offers a thought-provoking lens through which to understand the nation. Rather than focusing on nuclear ambitions, this book delves into the deeper layers of North Korean ideology, uncovering the potent mix of paranoia and racial pride that shapes its politics and societal views. It's a fascinating, if somewhat unsettling, exploration of how North Koreans perceive themselves and their place in the global landscape.
The Rise and Fall of Nations: Forces of Change in the Post-Crisis World
Ruchir Sharma | W. W. Norton & Company

The Rise and Fall of Nations: Forces of Change in the Post-Crisis World

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Goodreads rating: 4.14

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In stock: Very Good

You might find "The Rise and Fall of Nations" by Ruchir Sharma particularly enlightening if you're interested in how political and economic climates interlace with global events. Sharma provides a front-row seat to understanding economic nuances by simplifying complex concepts into ten accessible rules. His blend of personal encounters and analytical acumen makes it a thought-provoking read for anyone looking to grasp the intricacies of national fortunes in a post-crisis world.
Matawan and Aberdeen: Of Town and Field - Thryft
Helen B. Henderson, Matawan Historical Society  | Arcadia Publishing

Matawan and Aberdeen: Of Town and Field

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Goodreads rating: 5.0

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If you're drawn to local histories that offer a window into America's evolving small towns, you'll enjoy "Matawan and Aberdeen – Of Town and Field." The book delivers a rich narrative of how a modest agricultural and shipping hub grew into a dynamic suburban locality. Plus, its emphasis on preservation efforts underscores a community's love for its heritage, making it a heartwarming read for those interested in the cultural tapestry of America.
Ripley's Believe It or Not! Prepare to Be Shocked

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If your curiosity craves the strange and shocking, "Ripley's Believe It Or Not! Prepare To Be Shocked" is like a treasure trove waiting for you. It's an invitation to challenge your sense of reality with visuals and stories that defy belief. This book will be your ticket to feeling perpetually amazed, perfect for anyone who loves to pepper their conversations with "Did you know" facts.
Evening Chats in Beijing: Probing China's Predicament - Thryft
E. Perry Link | W. W. Norton & Company

Evening Chats in Beijing: Probing China's Predicament

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Goodreads rating: 4.0

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As someone interested in the depth of China's contemporary challenges and cultural pressures, "Evening Chats in Beijing" by E. Perry Link is a true intellectual dive. You'll be privy to the inner dialogues of China's most thoughtful minds as they grapple with their country's destiny. This book offers a rare, intimate glimpse into the concerns that culminated in the tumultuous events of Tiananmen in 1989, making it an enlightening read for those who seek to understand the complexities of China beyond the headlines.
A Social History of English Cricket - Thryft
Derek Birley | Aurum Press

A Social History of English Cricket

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Goodreads rating: 3.74

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If you're a cricket enthusiast or a fan of sports history, "A Social History of English Cricket" would be a compelling read for you. Derek Birley takes you beyond scores and statistics, diving into how cricket has shaped and been shaped by English society. It's the kind of book that can deepen your appreciation for the game by showing its place in the larger cultural tapestry.
Water Frontier: Commerce and the Chinese in the Lower Mekong Region, 1750-1880

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If you're intrigued by how trade shapes history, "Water Frontier" might just be your next page-turner. It offers a fresh perspective on Indochina's past, focusing on a time when economic networks transcended national boundaries. Particularly noteworthy is its illumination of the Chinese diaspora's pivotal role in regional trade, making it a compelling read for those interested in the intricate blend of commerce, culture, and migration.
China Wakes: The Struggle for the Soul of a Rising Power - Thryft
Nicholas D. Kristof, Sheryl WuDunn  | Times Books/random House

China Wakes: The Struggle for the Soul of a Rising Power

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Goodreads rating: 3.98

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87% off est. retail

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If you’re intrigued by the evolution of global powers, “China Wakes” offers a deep dive into the complexities of China's ascension. The reporters take you through the multifaceted societal changes with a level of detail that's personal yet panoramic. It's as eye-opening as it is enlightening, providing a snapshot of a pivotal time in China’s history. This book may change the way you see China and its place in the world.
Americans of 1776: Daily Life in Revolutionary America - Thryft
James Schouler | Heritage Books, Inc

Americans of 1776: Daily Life in Revolutionary America

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Goodreads rating: 2.6

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If you're intrigued by the vivid tapestry of history, "Americans of 1776" is a must-read. James Schouler’s detailed account brings the era to life, far beyond the battlefields—right into the homes and daily rituals of early Americans. It's like a time machine that gives you a front-row seat to the birth of a nation, outfitting you not just with facts, but with the feel of the period.
Sex, Death, and God in L.A - Thryft
David Reid | University Of California Press

Sex, Death, and God in L.A

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Goodreads rating: 3.27

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If you're enamored with the multifaceted nature of Los Angeles, "Sex, Death, and God in L.A." offers a tapestry of perspectives that feel both intimate and comprehensive. They dive beyond the glamorous veil showcasing how various communities, from Latino to Asian to Hollywood elite, shape the pulsing heart of the city. It's like eavesdropping on an enlightened conversation about a place both mythical and decidedly real.
Journeys Through Southeast Asia: Ceritalah 2
Karim Raslan | Times Book International

Journeys Through Southeast Asia: Ceritalah 2

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Goodreads rating: 3.54

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As someone fascinated by the diversity and complexity of Southeast Asia, you'll find Karim Raslan's "Journeys through Southeast Asia: Ceritalah 2" immensely enlightening. Raslan's penchant for keen observation and his vivid storytelling bring out the color and contrasts of the region. It's not just a travelogue but a deeper exploration of the communities, politics, and cultures that make up this vibrant part of the world. Whether it's the busy streets of Rangoon or the quiet musings of local artists, this book promises to take you on a journey that's as educational as it is entertaining.
Sons of the Yellow Emperor: Story of the Overseas Chinese - Thryft
Lynn Pan | Random House Uk

Sons of the Yellow Emperor: Story of the Overseas Chinese

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Goodreads rating: 4.01

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"Sons of the Yellow Emperor" is more than just a historical account; it's a rich tapestry weaving together stories of triumph, struggle, and cultural exchange. If you have an interest in the global Chinese experience and its profound impact on the world, this book offers a deep dive into personal journeys and monumental achievements of the Chinese diaspora. Lynn Pan's thorough research and vibrant storytelling could make this an enlightening read for you.
Superstitions - Thryft
Peter Haining | Treasure House

Superstitions

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Goodreads rating: 3.0

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If you're intrigued by the quirks of human belief and enjoy delving into the peculiar traditions that have shaped cultures around the globe, Peter Haining's "Superstitions" will provide you with a treasure trove of fascinating rituals and myths. It's a charming read that entertains as much as it informs, perfect for those who find pleasure in the strange and the historical.
Conspiracy of Silence: Queensland's Frontier Killing Times
Timothy Bottoms, Raymond Evans  | Allen & Unwin

Conspiracy of Silence: Queensland's Frontier Killing Times

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Goodreads rating: 4.09

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This book could resonate with you if you're into Australian history or seeking to understand the true and often unspoken costs of colonial expansion. Timothy Bottoms doesn't shy away from the gritty, uncomfortable truths that led to the formation of modern Queensland, taking a deep dive into an era that's frequently glossed over. If you appreciate thorough research paired with a pursuit for justice and historical accuracy, "Conspiracy of Silence" could offer you a stark yet necessary perspective.
Wartime: Understanding and Behavior in the Second World War - Thryft

Wartime: Understanding and Behavior in the Second World War

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If you've ever wondered how the ordinary soldier or civilian experienced World War II beyond the battle tactics and political strategies, "Wartime" is an illuminating read. Paul Fussell's personal engagement in the war provides a narrative filled with depth, exploring the changes in social psyche, language, and literature caused by the conflict. This book isn't just about what happened, but how it felt and altered the inner lives and cultural expression of those who lived through it.
Massacre at Fort William Henry - Thryft
David R. Starbuck | University Press Of New England

Massacre at Fort William Henry

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Goodreads rating: 3.6

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82% off est. retail

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If you're fascinated by the raw and gritty aspects of history, especially early American colonial clashes, the 'Massacre at Fort William Henry' offers an absorbing dive into one of the 18th-century's darker episodes. David R. Starbuck's archeological background lends a distinct authenticity to the narrative, making it a gripping read for anyone interested in the underbelly of American history.
About Time : A History of Civilization in Twelve Clocks - Thryft
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The measurement of time has always been essential to human civilization, from early Roman sundials to the advent of GPS. But while we have one eye on the time every day, are we aware of the power clocks have given governments, military leaders and business owners, and how they have shaped our lives and our world?In this spectacularly far-reaching book, David Rooney narrates a history of timekeeping and civilization in twelve concise chapters. Over their course, we meet the most epochal inventions in horological history, from medieval water clocks to Renaissance hourglasses, and from stock-exchange timestamps to satellites in Earth's orbit. We discover how clocks have helped people navigate the globe and build empires, but also, on occasion, taken us to the brink of destruction.This is the story of time, and the story of time is the story of us.
Dead Famous: An Unexpected History of Celebrity from Bronze Age to Silver Screen
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Greg Jenner | Weidenfeld & Nicolson

Dead Famous: An Unexpected History of Celebrity from Bronze Age to Silver Screen

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Goodreads rating: 3.8

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49% off est. retail

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"Dead Famous" offers an unexpected journey, taking you well beyond the present-day glitz of social media influencers back to the intriguing origins of celebrity culture. Greg Jenner masterfully uncovers the earliest stars and their stories, providing an absorbing narrative that's not only about how people became icons but also how their fame shaped society. It's a must-read if you enjoy peeling back the layers of history to understand how past celebrity culture informs our current obsession with fame.
At Home : A Short History of Private Life - Thryft
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Bryson Bill | Black Swan

At Home : A Short History of Private Life

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Goodreads rating: 3.98

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62% off est. retail

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"At Home" provides a delightful and insightful journey through the history of human civilization via the rooms of a single house, revealing the hidden connections between ordinary objects and world-changing events. It is perfect for anyone who is curious about how the things we take for granted today came to be.

Understanding Social Dynamics

At Thryft, our Sociology section serves as a gateway to understanding complex social structures and behaviours. We offer a wide range of titles covering key sociological theories, modern societal challenges, by influential thinkers. Sociology engages with real world issues, functioning as a lens to view personal and collective social identities. Whether you’re pursuing personal growth or specific academic interests, our collection has something for everyone. Connect with these enlightening works today.