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The SAGE Dictionary of Sociology
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The SAGE Dictionary of Sociology

First Edition

January 2006 | 344 pages | SAGE Publications Ltd

"Steve Bruce's and Steven Yearley's The SAGE Dictionary of Sociology is undoubtedly the most accessible, readable and downright interesting - even amusing - dictionary of its type. In being all of those things - and more - the dictionary does not sacrifice on quality. There are many well-chosen entries and they are quite informative. A useful addition to any scholar's library while at the same time being an excellent resource for both graduate and undergraduate students."
—George Ritzer, Distinguished Professor, University of Maryland

With over 1000 entries on key concepts and theorists, The SAGE Dictionary of Sociology provides full coverage of the field, clarifying the technical use of apparently common words, explaining the fundamentals concepts, and introducing new and unfamiliar terms. A humorous, enjoyable read, this book provides authoritative, reliable definitions; accessible 'digests' of key arguments; contemporary, and appealing illustrations of points.

This is not just another dry guide to the discipline. Engagingly written with its audience firmly in mind, it will be the definitive and chosen companion to established textbooks and teaching materials in Sociology and the Social Sciences.

"This is a delightful and comprehensive dictionary. The authors write in an engaging and lively style that brings alive the ideas of sociology not only for existing practitioners, but also for a whole new generation of students."
—Tim May,  Director of the Centre for Sustainable Urban and Regional Futures (SURF), University of Salford

"Prior to seeing The SAGE Dictionary of Sociology, I would have thought that a reference book that reads like a nonfiction bestseller was a conjurer's illusion. Miraculously, 'The Two Steves' (Bruce and Yearley) have pulled it off, and with a refreshing sense of 'brio'. This compendium sets a new level of excellence. The authors have succeeded at one and the same time in covering the sociological landscape in a comprehensive and authoritative manner while writing with an insouciance, dry wit and critical edge . They present key concepts, ideas and personalities such that they are fully accessible to undergraduate students while being of practical use to more established scholars. Highly recommended."
—John Hannigan, University of Toronto


"Steve Bruce's and Steven Yearley's The SAGE Dictionary of Sociology is undoubtedly the most accessible, readable and downright interesting - even amusing - dictionary of its type. In being all of those things - and more - the dictionary does not sacrifice on quality. There are many well-chosen entries and they are quite informative. A useful addition to any scholar's library while at the same time being an excellent resource for both graduate and undergraduate students."

George Ritzer
University of Maryland

"This is a delightful and comprehensive dictionary. The authors write in an engaging and lively style that brings alive the ideas of sociology not only for existing practitioners, but also for a whole new generation of students."

Tim May
University of Salford

"Prior to seeing the SAGE Dictionary of Sociology, I would have thought that a reference book that reads like a nonfiction bestseller was a conjurer's illusion. Miraculously, 'The Two Steves' (Bruce and Yearley) have pulled it off, and with a refreshing sense of 'brio'. This compendium sets a new level of excellence. The authors have succeeded at one and the same time in covering the sociological landscape in a comprehensive and authoritative manner while writing with an insouciance, dry wit and critical edge. They present key concepts, ideas and personalities such that they are fully accessible to undergraduate students while being of practical use to more established scholars. Highly recommended."

John Hannigan
University of Toronto

Excellent resource for any Student Studying Sociology / Social work at FE or University. Must have book that will provide extensive and clear definitions of the key terms used on this subject matter

Mr Vernon Ambris
health and social care, West Thames College
August 31, 2021

Not really suitable for our course but an excellent collection of theories and terms

Ms Lorna Harris
Hillsborough College, Sheffield College
April 13, 2016

A recommended book for my course, less 'dry' than other dictionaries; engaging the reader well.

Mrs Marcia Dewar
Health, Community & Social Care, Bradford College
January 14, 2015

Substantive resource on sociology terminology

Dr G Brown
Social Science Division, Delta State University
November 28, 2014

Very useful and easily accesable

Mr Michael Hobson
School of Education, St Mary's University College Twickenham
September 2, 2013

A must have dictionary for both staff and students. Cleary written which covers up to date key concepts.

Miss Sharron Stillyards
health and social care, northlindsey college
August 27, 2013

An excellent resource for students. Invaluable reading in its own right or alongside Sociology textbooks.

Miss Frances Jackson
Public Services, Peterborough Regional College
March 11, 2012

Sample Materials & Chapters

Chapter A PDF

Chapter B PDF

Chapter C PDF


For instructors

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Rent or Buy eBook
ISBN: 9781446238547

Hardcover
ISBN: 9780761974819
$190.00

Paperback
ISBN: 9780761974826
$38.00

This title is also available on SAGE Knowledge, the ultimate social sciences online library. If your library doesn’t have access, ask your librarian to start a trial.