The Penguin Dictionary of Sociology (Penguin Reference)

Described as offering one line definitions of a wide range of social science concepts, the book does actually go into its definitions in a little more depth. You will find extensive entries on many of the major figures of social science, plus well-presented and highly accessible analyses of such concepts as 'alienation' or 'anomie' - both being conditions you are likely to experience when writing an essay ... and both being capable of amelioration by using this neat little volume of crib notes.

I have a degree and a Masters in sociology; I work in social work. I've carried this little volume around with me since 1984 and still find it very useful, from time to time. It's now into its second edition - make sure that is what you get, because the earlier edition was before postmodernism ... and you wouldn't want to miss out on that! It won't actually pass your exams for you, but it is a reassuring little friend to have handy when doing revision or writing essays ... how do you spell 'ethnomethodology', and what does it all mean?


sociology made easy.   November 1, 2002
 16 out of 17 found this review helpful

This is an excellent book , if like me you are a beginner to this subject . Explanations of terms used are written in an easy to understand way .Makes the complicated seem simple .


This is a superb source of reference and easy to use!   March 25, 2001
 35 out of 35 found this review helpful

Initially, I thought that being a Penguin book, this dictionary would not be mature enough for a Sociology A level. But I was wrong. I must inform you that you cannot pass with this alone! When used together with a text book, you will have all the information needed to pass A-level. This is a detailed listing of sociological terms in alphabetical order. It does not however, relate the terms to real life. It does contain large amounts of sociological studies which are useful. Honestly, it could do with some photographs and references to real life situations but is well worth buying. It is very useful for revision purposes as it is easy to use and find information on specific topics. This would make coursework a breeze as you have all of the terms at your fingertips and you know exactly what they mean. The Bibliography is also a great help as you gain extra points for talking about Sociologists and their studies. It is a good reminder, if you already have the knowledge! Extremely good value for money and well worth buying!!! But I reccommend you buy another book to use with it.