"Our Social World: Introduction to Sociology" introduces the discipline of sociology to the contemporary student and provides an integrated, comprehensible framework from which to view the world. Each chapter provides an organizing theme that is not exclusively tied to one theoretical paradigm to help students see relationships between topics. "Our Social World" also: offers a strong global focus - a global perspective is integrated into each chapter to encourage students to think of global society as a logical extension of their own micro world; illustrates the practical side of sociology - boxes highlight careers and volunteer opportunities for those with a background in sociology as well as policy issues that sociologists influence; and, encourages critical thinking - this book provides various research strategies and illustrates concrete examples of the method being used to help students develop a more sophisticated epistemology.