Author Description

As society becomes increasingly complex and diverse it is more difficult than ever for the lay person to understand how the variety of institutional structures within society function. This book examines the basic characteristics of thirteen fundamental institutions in Australian society, giving an overview of the development and contemporary significance of each one. Written by specialists in each area, but assuming no prior study of the subjects, the book gives insights into the workings of federal government, state government and local government, the law, the economy, industrial relations, agriculture, education, mass media, social welfare, medicine, religion and sport. Each chapter is self-contained and includes a guide to further reading, while an introduction by the editor provides an overview of the importance of the chosen institutions in modern Australia.