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Sociology Books

Explore the depths of human society and social behaviour in our extensive Sociology section. From theories and structures, to issues of globalisation and inequality, our selection offers insightful reads for both casual learners and seasoned sociologists. Delve into pivotal works that examine the narratives shaping our societies today.

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A Home From Home : From Immigrant Boy to English Man - Thryft
George Alagiah | Little Brown & Co

A Home From Home : From Immigrant Boy to English Man

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Martin is new to the neighborhood, and wants to make a good impression on his new teammates. But when he loses his lucky baseball bat, Martin fears that he has also lost his ability to play baseball. Will Martin be able to continue his winning streak without the bat?
Reinventing ASEAN
Jesus P. Estanislao, Hadi Soesastro, Simon S. C. Tay  | Institute Of Southeast Asian Studies

Reinventing ASEAN

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 2.0

$11.90

If you’re curious about how Southeast Asia can stay relevant in a changing world, this feels like an insightful, forward-looking read. Simon S. C. Tay likely brings a thoughtful regional perspective that goes beyond headlines and into what ASEAN could become. It should appeal to readers who enjoy policy, diplomacy, and big-picture ideas grounded in real regional stakes.
Honoring Human Rights and Keeping the Peace
Unknown Author | Aspen Inst Publications Office

Honoring Human Rights and Keeping the Peace

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$11.90

This looks like a thoughtful pick for someone interested in how human rights and peacekeeping connect in the real world. Even with little detail, the title suggests a serious, reflective read about global responsibility and moral duty. It could appeal to readers who like books that make them think about fairness, conflict, and what it takes to build a more peaceful society.
Old Issues, New Responses: Japan's Foreign and Security Policy Options
Masashi Nishihara, Nishihara Masashi  | Nihon Kokusai Koryu Center

Old Issues, New Responses: Japan's Foreign and Security Policy Options

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$13.90

This is a thoughtful pick if you like international relations grounded in real policy choices rather than abstract theory. It brings together Japanese scholarly voices on security, diplomacy, refugees, China, North Korea, and the U.S. alliance in a way that feels practical and forward-looking. Readers interested in East Asian politics will likely appreciate how it wrestles with difficult trade-offs instead of offering easy answers.
People and Places: U.S.S.R.
Marilyn Tolhurst, Ludmilla Lewis  | Heinemann Young Books

People and Places: U.S.S.R.

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$10.90

If you’re curious about places beyond the usual tourist lens, this feels like a small time capsule from the U.S.S.R. It likely offers the kind of grounded, observational look at people and surroundings that makes history feel lived-in rather than distant. Readers who enjoy cultural snapshots, vintage nonfiction, or old travel-style books may find it especially absorbing.
Inventions
David Smith | Harpercollins Publishers

Inventions

$19.90 $15.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$19.90 $15.90 20% off

If you're fascinated by human creativity and the evolution of technology, "Inventions" is a treasure trove that you'll appreciate. It's not just a catalogue of gadgets and gizmos but a celebration of the leaps in thinking that have shaped our world. You'll likely find each page sparking curiosity and wonder about the stories behind the tools and technologies we often take for granted.
The Green Crusade: Rethinking the Roots of Environmentalism
Charles T. Rubin | Free Press

The Green Crusade: Rethinking the Roots of Environmentalism

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90

If you're intrigued by the evolution of environmentalism from industry's proudest champion to today's crucial social issue, "The Green Crusade" offers a thought-provoking perspective. Rubin challenges the reader to reconsider the scientific and political underpinnings that have shaped the environmental movement. This book is a deep-dive into understanding how the narrative surrounding human interaction with nature has shifted, through the influence of key thinkers, to the powerful force it is today. It's essential reading if you're looking to explore the complexities behind one of the most significant societal shifts of our time.
The History of White People
Nell Irvin Painter | W. W. Norton & Company

The History of White People

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.07

$8.90

82% off est. retail
Dive into "The History of White People" for a profound exploration beyond the often-frontlined stories of racial minorities. Nell Irvin Painter's work challenges readers to confront the socio-historical constructs of race and whiteness, making it a crucial read for anyone interested in understanding the deep-seated roots and impacts of racial concepts on Western civilization. It's a history buff's treasure and a thought-provoker for the socially conscious.
Zeitoun
Just Arrived

Zeitoun

$10.71

$10.71

62% off est. retail
This is the kind of true story that stays with you because it begins with everyday decency and turns into something shocking and deeply unsettling. Zeitoun feels vivid and human, especially in the portrait of a family trying to do right while systems around them collapse. If you’re drawn to narrative nonfiction that reads with urgency but carries real emotional weight, this is a powerful and memorable read.
The Hell of It All
Charlie Brooker | Faber And Faber

The Hell of It All

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$8.90

If you're the type to chuckle at the absurdities of contemporary life with a side of biting wit, "The Hell of It All" might be your next favorite read. Charlie Brooker's acerbic commentary will resonate if you appreciate humor that's as dark as it is intelligent, skewering everything from pop culture to political absurdities. It's like having a hilarious conversation with that one friend who sees the world with a bit of healthy skepticism.
Griffith Review 56 - Millennials Strike Back
Courtney Landers, Jerath Head, Julianne Schultz  | Text Publishing

Griffith Review 56 - Millennials Strike Back

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

Goodreads rating: 4.5

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

If you're keen on understanding the pulse of Millennial generation, 'Griffith Review 56' offers a refreshing perspective that's rare to find. It's not just about dismantling stereotypes; it's a collection of ideas and stories that resonate with youthful innovation and the sobering challenges faced by the most educated generation to date. Reading this could give you a real sense of hope or validation, especially if you're passionate about where the world is heading with Millennials at the helm.
Postmodern Singapore
William Siew Wai Lim | Select Pub

Postmodern Singapore

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

This book would be of interest to readers looking for a critical analysis of Singapore's social, cultural, and political landscape. Shearman does a fantastic job of dissecting the complexities of modern Singapore by providing a refreshing perspective on the city-state's development. This book stands out because of its unique voice and the author's ability to deconstruct Singapore's progress in a critical yet insightful manner. Overall, Postmodern Singapore is an unmatched read for anyone wanting to examine Singapore's transformation in recent years.
Housing in Southeast Asian Capital Cities
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Ooi Giok Ling | Institute Of Southeast Asian S

Housing in Southeast Asian Capital Cities

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.5

$11.90

If you're fascinated by urban development and the complexities of city life in the dynamic context of Southeast Asia, "Housing in Southeast Asian Capital Cities" could be a thought-provoking read. It delves into the heart of critical issues affecting burgeoning metropolises, offering a blend of scholarly insight and real-world case studies that could widen your understanding of urban planning struggles and progress in this vibrant region.
Issues Facing Christians Today
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John R.W. Stott | Marshall Pickering

Issues Facing Christians Today

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$9.90

If you're navigating the modern world while trying to stay true to your Christian faith, this is a book that resonates. John St. W. Stott tactfully addresses pressing ethical issues from a Christian viewpoint, offering guidance that's grounded in scripture but aware of modern complexities. It's a thoughtful read for anyone seeking to reconcile their beliefs with the fast pace of 21st-century challenges.
Market Society: Markets and Modern Social Theory
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Don Slater, Fran Tonkiss  | Polity

Market Society: Markets and Modern Social Theory

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$13.90

60% off est. retail
If you're keen on understanding how markets shape and are shaped by society, "Market Society" could be the book for you. It's not just about economics; it's a broader take on how markets integrate with social actions and relationships. Plus, it's designed to be accessible, so you don't need to be an academic to digest its insights about the intersection of markets with culture and politics.
Domesticating Neo-Liberalism: Spaces of Economic Practice and Social Reproduction in Post-Socialist Cities
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Alena Rochovská, Alison Stenning, Adrian Smith  | Wiley-blackwell

Domesticating Neo-Liberalism: Spaces of Economic Practice and Social Reproduction in Post-Socialist Cities

$21.90

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$21.90

64% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the fusion of economic theories and real-world applications, this book will be enlightening. It dives into the tangible effects of neoliberal policies on everyday life in post-socialist cities, exemplified by Poland and Slovakia. It's particularly valuable for its empirical data and insights into how households adapt during times of profound change, offering a perspective that's both academically rich and grounded in lived experience.
Education and Knowledge in Thailand - The Quality Controversy
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Phasina Tangchuang, Alain Mounier  | Silkworm Books

Education and Knowledge in Thailand - The Quality Controversy

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90

If you're keen on understanding the nuances of Thai education and the challenges it faces, "Education And Knowledge In Thailand - The Quality Controversy" offers a detailed critique, valuable for both educators and policymakers. Its analysis on how Thailand might move towards becoming a knowledge-based society gives food for thought for anyone interested in educational development and the socio-economic progress of nations.
Change in Voting: Singapore’s 2015 General Election
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Loke Hoe Yeong, Natalie Pang, Terence Lee  | Ethos Books

Change in Voting: Singapore’s 2015 General Election

$11.37

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$11.37

If you're keen on understanding the dynamics that shaped Singapore's 2015 General Election, this book offers a comprehensive dissection. It's especially valuable for those interested in political science, electoral trends, and the specific sociopolitical landscape of Singapore. The expert analysis provided by Lee and Tan could enrich your perspective on how electoral changes reflect broader societal shifts.
Acts of Arguing: A Rhetorical Model of Argument
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Christopher W. Tindale | State University Of New York Press

Acts of Arguing: A Rhetorical Model of Argument

$15.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$15.90

63% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the art of persuasion and the complexities of dialogue, "Acts of Arguing" could offer you a thought-provoking perspective. Christopher W. Tindale dives into how rhetoric shapes arguments, which could deepen your understanding of communication and critical thinking skills, especially if you enjoy exploring theories that straddle philosophy, rhetoric, and linguistics.
Inside Terrorism
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Bruce Hoffman | Columbia University Press

Inside Terrorism

$14.90

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$14.90

If you're keen on understanding the complexities of terrorism beyond the headlines, Bruce Hoffman's "Inside Terrorism" offers an in-depth look at its historical evolution, ideological shifts, and media influences. It's a seminal work that provides nuanced insights into the minds and methods of terrorists, serving as a thoughtful resource for anyone interested in security studies, global politics, or contemporary history.
Tools and Weapons: The Promise and the Peril of the Digital Age
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Brad Smith | Penguin Random House Usa

Tools and Weapons: The Promise and the Peril of the Digital Age

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$8.90

If you're intrigued by the intersection of technology with ethical dilemmas and global policy, "Tools and Weapons" offers a front-row seat to these challenges from Microsoft's vantage point. It's not just a deep dive into digital age quandaries; it's a narrative that makes you ponder how we, as a society, balance innovation with responsibility. This book might change how you view the tech giants that shape our world.
The Outrage Industry: Political Opinion Media and the New Incivility
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Sarah Sobieraj, Jeffrey M. Berry  | Oxford University Press

The Outrage Industry: Political Opinion Media and the New Incivility

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

"The Outrage Industry" could resonate with you if you're puzzled by the aggressive tone in political media and its consequences on society. The authors, Berry and Sobieraj, have sifted through the mechanics of what they term 'outrage rhetoric' to draw a line connecting it to the polarized nature of current political discourse. This book goes beyond just descriptions, delving into the origins and impacts of hyper-partisan media on both politics and personal interactions, potentially illuminating and adjusting how you consume political commentary.
Crime Movies
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Carlos Clarens, Foster Hirsch  | Da Capo Press

Crime Movies

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

76% off est. retail
This book could captivate you if you're fascinated by the gritty transformation of crime in American film over the years. It's not just a study of films; it's a dive into the changing societal views and the impact that cinema has had on public perception. If you're passionate about film history or intrigued by the infamous glamorization of crime figures, Carlos Clarens' journey through celluloid's most notorious tales will leave you both informed and engrossed.
Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything
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Steven D.; Dubner Levitt | Allen Lane

Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

Ever thought about the economics of drug dealers or what sumo wrestlers and teachers might have in common? If such quirky questions intrigue you, "Freakonomics" is right up your alley! It's not a standard economics textbook—it's a trove of unusual insights that will shift how you see the everyday world. The unconventional perspective might just hook you, whether you're into economics or just love a good intellectual twist.
The Anti-Globalization Breakfast Club: Manifesto for a Peaceful Revolution
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Laurence J. Brahm | Wiley

The Anti-Globalization Breakfast Club: Manifesto for a Peaceful Revolution

$14.90 $10.90 27% off

Goodreads rating: 4.6

$14.90 $10.90 27% off

80% off est. retail
If recent global economic shake-ups have you questioning the foundations of capitalism, Brahm's "The Anti-Globalization Breakfast Club" could recalibrate your compass. It's not just a critique; it's an insightful exploration of alternative economic models that champion social fairness, environmental respect, and equitable growth. Imagine a world where development isn't measured by GDP alone—this book will take you there, offering a compelling vision for a more humane approach to globalization.
Introducing Media Studies - Graphic Guides
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Ziauddin Sardar, Borin Van Loon  | Icon Books

Introducing Media Studies - Graphic Guides

$7.90 $4.90 38% off

Goodreads rating: 3.27

$7.90 $4.90 38% off

63% off est. retail
If you're curious about how media shapes our society, "Introducing Media Studies" could be your gateway. This graphic guide makes complex theories accessible with engaging illustrations, perfect for visual learners. It's a thought-provoking exploration that will help you understand the media landscape like never before.
That Used to Be Us - What Went Wrong with America - and How It Can Come Back
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Thomas L. Friedman, Michael Mandelbaum  | Little Brown And Company

That Used to Be Us - What Went Wrong with America - and How It Can Come Back

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

88% off est. retail
If you're wondering about the shifts in American society, this book might be your cup of tea. Friedman and Mandelbaum offer a compelling narrative that slices through the fog of political and economic discourse. They do not just present problems but offer a lens of optimism to view America's potential for revitalization, a read that balances critique with hope.
Foucault for Beginners
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Lydia Alix Fillingham | For Beginners

Foucault for Beginners

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 3.66

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

63% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the interplay between power, knowledge, and society, Foucault for Beginners distills complex theories into digestible bits, complemented by engaging illustrations. It's an accessible starting point to explore the challenging ideas of one of the 20th century's most influential thinkers. Whether you're a student or a curious mind, it paints a vivid picture of Foucault's critique on societal structures.
The Great Experiment: How to Make Diverse Democracies Work
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unknown author

The Great Experiment: How to Make Diverse Democracies Work

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 1.0

$9.90

53% off est. retail
If the idea of coexisting peacefully in an increasingly diverse society intrigues or concerns you, Yascha Mounk's "The Great Experiment" is one to pick up. This book earns a spot on your shelf for its timely analysis and hopeful perspective on one of today's most pressing challenges—making diverse democracies work. It's a blend of deep political thought and a dash of optimism, a must-read to understand and engage with the world as it shifts around us.
Fear of Small Numbers: An Essay on the Geography of Anger
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Arjun Appadurai | Duke University Press Books

Fear of Small Numbers: An Essay on the Geography of Anger

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

75% off est. retail
"Fear of Small Numbers" is quite the revelation if you're looking to dive deep into the paradox of increasing violence in our era of globalization. Appadurai's sharp intellect dissects the fears and tensions between global majorities and minorities with a compelling perspective that's both enlightening and sobering. It’s the kind of read that could reshape how you understand contemporary world affairs and the intricate dance between cultural identity and global forces.
Beccaria: 'On Crimes and Punishments' and Other Writings - Thryft
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Richard Bellamy, Cesare Beccaria, Richard Davies  | Cambridge University Press

Beccaria: 'On Crimes and Punishments' and Other Writings

$13.69 $8.90 35% off

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$13.69 $8.90 35% off

81% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the underpinnings of modern justice systems and enjoy delving into philosophical texts, you'll find Beccaria's work compelling. This book uncovers the tapestry of Enlightenment thought, showcasing how ideas about punishment, politics, and human motivation intertwine. It breathes life into historical concepts that still echo in current debates on law and order, making it a thought-provoking read for anyone interested in the evolution of societal norms and governance.
The Great Disruption - Human Nature and the Reconstitution of Social Order - Thryft
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Francis Fukuyama | Free Press

The Great Disruption - Human Nature and the Reconstitution of Social Order

$17.90 $9.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$17.90 $9.90 45% off

75% off est. retail
If you've been feeling the seismic shifts in our social landscape, "The Great Disruption" by Francis Fukuyama might resonate with you. Fukuyama doesn't just dwell on what's been lost; he offers a rigorous analysis of these changes and gives a glimpse of the emerging social order. For anyone seeking to understand the interplay between human nature and societal change, this book lays out a comprehensive foundation that's as thought-provoking as it is enlightening.
The Culture of Contentment - Thryft
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John Kenneth Galbraith | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

The Culture of Contentment

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

71% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the intricate relationship between politics, economics, and social stagnation, "The Culture of Contentment" could be an insightful read for you. Galbraith masterfully uses the climate of the late 20th century to probe into the sense of satisfaction that can often precede serious societal challenges. Whether you're a history buff or just keen on understanding the cyclic nature of contentment and crisis, this book will offer a thought-provoking analysis.
Selected Writings
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Émile Durkheim, Anthony Giddens  | Cambridge University Press

Selected Writings

$15.90

Goodreads rating: 3.81

$15.90

64% off est. retail
If you're delving into sociology or social theory, Durkheim’s "Selected Writings" is indispensable. This collection is curated thematically, offering a comprehensive perspective on his evolution as a thinker. Moreover, if you’ve struggled with translations before, Dr. Giddens has refined these to ensure you're getting Durkheim's ideas as authentically as possible.
Studies in Social and Political Theory
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Anthony Giddens | Harpercollins

Studies in Social and Political Theory

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

If you're intrigued by the evolution of social theories and their lasting impact, Anthony Giddens' "Studies in Social and Political Theory" will feel like unearthing a treasure trove. The book explores the birth of sociology, digging deep into the classical theories that shape our understanding of society and its transformations. It's an intellectual challenge that invites you to rethink the role of social sciences and their capacity to critique the world we live in.
The German Ideology, Part 1 & Selections from Parts 2 & 3
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Karl Marx, Friedrich Engels, Christopher John Arthur  | International Publishers

The German Ideology, Part 1 & Selections from Parts 2 & 3

$4.90 $2.90 41% off

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$4.90 $2.90 41% off

56% off est. retail
If you're looking to dive into the foundational texts of Marxist theory, "The German Ideology" is a pivotal read. It offers a deep look into how Marx and Engels interpret history through their materialist lens. Not only does it provide critical insight into their views on society and ideas, but it also serves as a crucial piece for anyone interested in the philosophical underpinnings of socialist and communist thought.
Literature and Propaganda - Thryft
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A. Peter Foulkes | Routledge Kegan & Paul

Literature and Propaganda

$11.48

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$11.48

60% off est. retail
In exploring the methods and manifestations of propaganda, A.P. Foulkes draws upon a wide range of examples from children's literature, contemporary fiction, Soviet cultural politics and newspaper reviews.
Freakonomics
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Stephen J. Dubner, Steven D. Levitt  | Penguin Uk

Freakonomics

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$8.90

"Freakonomics" isn't your standard economics textbook; it's a treasure trove of quirky insights where data tells unexpected tales. For those curious about the hidden economic factors that influence our daily lives, Levitt offers a fresh, sometimes shocking, perspective. If you enjoy having your mind bent in new directions, this book will not only entertain but also arm you with stories that challenge conventional wisdom.
Challenge - Thryft
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مهاتير محمد, Mahathir Mohamad  | Pelanduk Pubns Sdn Bhd

Challenge

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.29

$8.26

84% off est. retail
Dr Mahathir Mohamad, Malaysia's Prime Minister since 1981, is well known for his original ideas and incisive plain-speaking. Both traits are grippingly evident in this book, where he takes a hard and honest look at certain modes of thinking and living that ver vying for spremacy in the modern world, in general, and within the Malay community in Malaysia, in particular.With charateristic aplomb bd straight forwardness, Dr Mahathir explodes fallacies and exposes distortions concerning religiosity, education, role models, democracy, communism, freedom and dicipline, and the concerns of this world and the next. Only by striking an equilibrium between an interest in things spiritual and secular, can the Malays hope ro face and overcome the conflicting forces and challenges of the modern world.'The Challenge' is thought provoking and is of special interest today as Dr Mahathir is at the helm of a nation striving for racial balance and religious sanity. He expounds the need for a new system of values, ethics and attitudes which the Malays must adopt in the country's quest to become a developed nation by the year 2020. By championing his Vision 2020 and the Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC), Malaysia, under his stewardship, will reach even greater heights.
Malaysia's 14th General Election and Umno's Fall: Intra-Elite Feuding in the Pursuit of Power - Thryft
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Mohamed Nawab Mohamed Osman, William Case, Edmund Terence Gomez  | Routledge

Malaysia's 14th General Election and Umno's Fall: Intra-Elite Feuding in the Pursuit of Power

$22.98

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$22.98

75% off est. retail
"The 2018 Malaysian General Election will stand as a major defining event in Malaysian history, when the ruling Barisan Nasional coalition unexpectedly lost power in the country they had ruled for over half a century. This volume brings together scholars who assess one fundamental factor that brought about this game-changing event in Malaysian politics: intra-elite feuding in the leading Malay-based political parties. This study provides an analysis of individual state politics as well as national trends shaped by the actions of leaders in government and the opposition. An indispensable guide for scholars studying the politics of Malaysia and of Southeast Asia more broadly, it will be of great interest for all readers with an interest in Malaysian politics"--
Restless Empire: China and the World Since 1750 - Thryft
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Odd Arne Westad | The Bodley Head Ltd

Restless Empire: China and the World Since 1750

$11.97

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$11.97

As the twenty-first century dawns, China stands at a crossroads. The largest and most populous country on earth and currently the world’s second biggest economy, China has recently reclaimed its historic place at the center of global affairs after decades of internal chaos and disastrous foreign relations. But even as China tentatively reengages with the outside world, the contradictions of its development risks pushing it back into an era of insularity and instability—a regression that, as China’s recent history shows, would have serious implications for all other nations.In Restless Empire, award-winning historian Odd Arne Westad traces China’s complex foreign affairs over the past 250 years, identifying the forces that will determine the country’s path in the decades to come. Since the height of the Qing Empire in the eighteenth century, China’s interactions—and confrontations—with foreign powers have caused its worldview to fluctuate wildly between extremes of dominance and subjugation, emulation and defiance. From the invasion of Burma in the 1760s to the Boxer Rebellion in the early 20th century to the 2001 standoff over a downed U.S. spy plane, many of these encounters have left Chinese with a lingering sense of humiliation and resentment, and inflamed their notions of justice, hierarchy, and Chinese centrality in world affairs. Recently, China’s rising influence on the world stage has shown what the country stands to gain from international cooperation and openness. But as Westad shows, the nation’s success will ultimately hinge on its ability to engage with potential international partners while simultaneously safeguarding its own strength and stability.An in-depth study by one of our most respected authorities on international relations and contemporary East Asian history, Restless Empire is essential reading for anyone wishing to understand the recent past and probable future of this dynamic and complex nation.
Creating Freedom: Power, Control and the Fight for Our Future - Thryft
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Raoul Martinez | Canongate Books

Creating Freedom: Power, Control and the Fight for Our Future

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.27

$8.26

59% off est. retail
The idea of freedom is at the heart of our political and economic systems. It is foundational to our democracy, our way of life - our very conception of what it is to be human. But are we free in the way that we think we are?In Creating Freedom, Raoul Martinez compellingly dismantles the sacred myth of freedom, showing that our belief that our institutions are free, even our sense of ourselves as agents of free will, is all based on false understanding. From the lottery of our birth, to the coercive influence of our media, to the self-reinforcing, consent-manufacturing realities of power and money, this far-reaching manifesto fiercely demonstrates just how differently we would act if we accepted how the world really is.It shows that freedom is not something we are given; it is not even something we can easily take. But with empathy, imagination, and determination - it is something we can create.
The Tyranny of Silence - Thryft
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Flemming Rose | Cato Institute

The Tyranny of Silence

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.26

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

88% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the intricate crossroads of free expression and cultural sensitivity, "The Tyranny of Silence" is a thought-provoking exploration that demands your attention. Rose's personal experiences provide a unique lens on the global debate, enriching your understanding of democracy’s delicate dance with diversity. It's especially timely in a world where the boundaries of speech are constantly tested and redefined.
The Birth of the Modern: World Society 1815-30
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Paul Johnson | Weidenfeld & Nicholson

The Birth of the Modern: World Society 1815-30

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 4.16

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

If you're intrigued by how today's world came to be, "The Birth of the Modern: World Society 1815-1830" is a compelling read. Paul Johnson dives deep into pivotal historical moments, making clear connections between the events of the past and the standards of the modern era. His narrative is not just a list of dates and facts; it's a story about the birth of modern society that continues to shape our world.
Challenges Of Governance In A Complex World, The - Thryft
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Peter Ho | World Scientific Publishing Company

Challenges Of Governance In A Complex World, The

$15.23

Goodreads rating: 4.22

$15.23

67% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for those interested in exploring the intricacies of governance in a rapidly changing world. With captivating metaphors like the 'black elephant' and concepts like the 'dialectic of governance', Peter Ho offers a systematic and insightful approach to understanding the future and building resilience. Whether you are a government official or simply curious about the dynamics of governance, this book provides valuable insights that can help navigate the complexities of our world.
Seeking A Better Urban Future - Thryft
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Koon Hean Cheong | Wspc

Seeking A Better Urban Future

$14.03

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$14.03

70% off est. retail
This book is highly recommended for anyone interested in understanding how cities tackle the unique problems and opportunities they face in today's world. Dr. Cheong, the CEO of the Housing and Development Board, shares her expertise and insights on how cities can plan and develop to create a better life for their citizens. With a focus on Singapore, she explores the considerations and constraints of a small city-state with an open economy. This book will broaden your perspective on urbanization and inspire you to seek innovative solutions for a better urban future.
China Is Messing with Your Mind
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Bilahari Kausikan | Epigram Books

China Is Messing with Your Mind

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$8.90

If you're keen on understanding the broader geopolitical maneuvers and their impacts on a personal and national identity, "China is Messing with Your Mind" could intrigue you. Kausikan's experience as a diplomat enriches this book with authenticity and provides a non-conventional perspective on the tensions between global powers and their subtle cultural influences, particularly for Singapore. It's an especially relevant read if you're interested in international affairs, identity politics, or the dynamics of Asian geopolitics.
The News : A User's Manual - Thryft
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Alain de Botton | Penguin Books

The News : A User's Manual

$5.83

Goodreads rating: 3.59

$5.83

74% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for anyone looking to understand and navigate the overwhelming world of news. Alain de Botton's witty and global perspective offers a refreshing take on the manic and peculiar positions that 'the news' occupies in our lives. With its mix of current affairs and philosophical reflections, The News will change the way you view celebrity stories and political scandals, equipping you with the precautions necessary to approach news with a critical eye. It's a guide that will empower you to separate the meaningful from the noise and find clarity in a chaotic media landscape.
Disability - Thryft
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Colin Barnes | Polity

Disability

$6.34

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$6.34

79% off est. retail
For most of the twentieth century, people with disabilities have been regarded as ‘victims’ of their condition and a ‘burden’ on society. More recently, however, disabled people and their organizations across Europe and North America have challenged conventional explanations for their individual and collective disadvantage, calling for policy measures to change the image and status of disabled people in the Western world.In this new book, Barnes and Mercer provide a concise and accessible introduction to the concept of disability. Drawing on a burgeoning ‘disability studies’ literature from around the world, and from a range of disciplinary perspectives, the authors explore the evolution of this concept and offer a wide-ranging critique of established academic, policy and professional orthodoxies. The book highlights disabled peoples’ exclusion and marginalization in key areas of social activity and participation across different historical and cultural contexts, such as family life and reproduction, education, employment, leisure, cultural imagery and politics.The analysis concentrates on disability as a distinctive form of social oppression similar to that experienced by women, minority ethnic and ‘racial’ groups, and lesbians and gay men. Key issues addressed theorizing disability; historical and comparative perspectives; experiencing impairment and disability; professional and policy intervention in the lives of disabled people; disability politics, social policy and citizenship; and disability culture.This will be essential reading for those studying sociology, social policy, social work, health studies, disability studies, and those in the therapy and nursing professions.
American Conspiracies: Lies, Lies, and More Dirty Lies that the Government Tells Us - Thryft
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Dick Russell, Jesse Ventura  | Skyhorse

American Conspiracies: Lies, Lies, and More Dirty Lies that the Government Tells Us

$6.34

Goodreads rating: 3.59

$6.34

83% off est. retail
This book is a thought-provoking and eye-opening exploration of government conspiracy theories. Jesse Ventura, with his bold and no-holds-barred approach, delves into the wide gap between what the American government knows and what it reveals to the people. He questions the official narratives surrounding major historical events like the assassinations of Lincoln, the Kennedys, and Martin Luther King, as well as the 9/11 attacks. Ventura's book is a must-read for those who are curious about the truth behind political cover-ups and the role of the media in perpetuating deception. Be prepared to have your beliefs challenged and your perspective forever altered.

Understanding Social Dynamics

At Thryft, our Sociology section serves as a gateway to understanding complex social structures and behaviours. We offer a wide range of titles covering key sociological theories, modern societal challenges, by influential thinkers. Sociology engages with real world issues, functioning as a lens to view personal and collective social identities. Whether you’re pursuing personal growth or specific academic interests, our collection has something for everyone. Connect with these enlightening works today.