This extremely brief and affordable text is a balanced introduction to sociology. It provides a careful, thoughtful blend of theory and the latest research, combined with illuminating examples, case studies and applications that help the student appreciate the sociological imagination. Based on the authors' longer text, SOCIOLOGY, this briefer version offers the brevity and flexibility to be used in conjunction with outside readings. The newest edition contains a special focus on technology, with "Focus on Technology" boxes, Internet resources and suggested projects, and InfoTrac College Edition exercises.