This text investigates the sociological dimensions of sex and gender, specifically how social institutions construct identity and maintain stratification. Margaret L. Andersen, a scholar in the field of sociology, utilizes a framework of feminist scholarship to analyze the distribution of power and economic resources. The book synthesizes current research to provide a comprehensive overview of how gender belief systems are developed and reinforced within contemporary society.

The text is regarded as a foundational academic introduction to the sociology of gender, designed specifically for undergraduate students. Its inclusion of accessible material on feminist scholarship makes it a standard resource for those seeking to understand the structural basis of gender inequality.