Amazon.com description: Product Description: This clearly written book introduces readers to both the discipline of sociology and to the specific area of gender roles at the same time. Focusing on the most recent research, both in the U.S. and globally, it provides an in-depth, multidisciplinary survey of both modern gender roles and issues. This book explains basic sociological concepts and theories. By providing a global/cross-cultural focus, it shows how gender issues are global issues which impact people at ALL levels. Emphasizes multicultural diversity in the U.S., highlighting the latest research linking gender to race, class, and age with a focus on mid-life and older women. Integrates insights from other disciplines- e.g., biology, psychology, and history- as they have influenced thinking on gender roles and the creation of beliefs about women and men, masculinity and femininity. Features a chapter on women, work, and the workplace. For people interested in sociology and women's issues.