Author Description

Compared to other peoples around the world, Americans tend to be very individualistic in their thought. Many of the social problems that we have in the United States stem, at least in part, from that American individualism. We tend to think that it is human nature to be so individualistic; a comparative approach will challenge readers to question that assumption. Moreover, it will introduce readers to solutions being tried in other countries around the world, thereby providing them with new perspectives and illustrating solutions that may be relevant to social problems in the United States. Containing thirty-seven articles pertaining to domestic and global social problems and social solutions, this book presents the underlying theme of inequality and conflict theory. Most of the problems discussed are either caused by inequality, or they affect different populations unequally. Each reading selection is preceded by an introduction highlighting the important themes of the article. Sociologists, policy makers, social workers, educators, and others interested in the topic.