This bestselling introduction to social problems opens with an overview of the sociological tools and perspectives that are used in the study of social problems. Social Problems provides a solid foundation by discussing fundamental changes and problems in the four basic social institutions -- economy, government, education, and family -- before examining more specific topics, such as health care or poverty.

This book's logical organization—essential concepts, troubled institutions, inequality, deviance, and global problems—in a concise, paperback format, helps readers gain a coherent understanding of social problems. There are strongly worded debates in each chapter on controversial problems related to the family, the political economy, education, the poor, ethnic minorities, health and illness, drug use, and crime. "Personal Perspectives" boxes give first person accounts of experiences such as single motherhood and "Signs of Hope" boxes show progress and solutions to problems. For those interested in a comprehensive look at—and a global perspective of—the social problems of America and other countries, as well as their causes and attempted solutions.

Product Description: The problem of white-collar crime has been grabbing headlines and gaining increased public attention.  In this timely new edition of The Criminal Elite, James William Coleman goes beneath the surface impressions to lay out the common forms and causes of white-collar crime and analyze the toll it takes on American society...read more

A study of Buddhist practice in the West draws on interviews to describe how Western influences--especially gender roles, power, and sex--have transformed Buddhist ceremonies, meditation, and the path to enlightenment. (view table of contents)

Product Description: Analyzes the causes, legal response, and impact of white-collar crime has on society. This new edition includes case studies on the tobacco industry and consumer fraud. (view table of contents, read Amazon.com's description)

Product Description: The problem of white-collar crime has been grabbing headlines and gaining increased public attention.  In this timely new edition of The Criminal Elite, James William Coleman goes beneath the surface impressions to lay out the common forms and causes of white-collar crime and analyze the toll it takes on American society...read more