The sociology of Europe is a growing and diverse field. This book addresses it in a direct, wide ranging and up-to-date way. "Exploring the Sociology of Europe" clearly maps this new and emerging field. It challenges and renews the sociological analysis of European modernity. It provides an understanding of Europe as an historical, social and civil complex. It develops and applies new interpretations of the key sociological themes of globalization, citizenship and cosmopolitanism to contemporary European society. This is a discerning and relevant book providing an informed analysis of European society which identifies and defines contemporary issues and engages with key social theoretical perspectives. Covering the substantive historical sociological aspects of Europe (Part 1), the historical and comparative sociology of the nation-state (Part 2), and the comparative sociology of welfare capitalism (Part 3) Maurice Roche sets out a clear and effective framework for understanding the sociology of Europe. The book will be of interest to all students, researchers and academics involved in studying, teaching and researching the expanding field of modern European society.