Interrogating the Global Social Challenges - by Kevin Gillan & Vanessa May

Book Synopsis

How can sociological thinking help us make sense of today's biggest global challenges?

In what is understood as 'an age of crisis', headlines are dominated by topic such as climate change, migration, radicalisation and inequality. These topics are core to sociology, yet sociological insights are drowned out in public debate frequently dominated by technological optimism, economic rhetoric or polarising politics.

This accessibly written textbook centres the sociological voice. It demonstrates how evidence-based, critical perspectives can illuminate the causes, interconnections and possible solutions to some of the most urgent issues of our time.

Each chapter is crafted to support students new to sociology, guiding them to think critically and make connections between complex global problems. Key pedagogical features include:

- Clear statements of key messages at the start of each chapter;

- Bold-highlighted definitions of sociological terms with minimal jargon;

- 'Focus point' boxes with data, case studies or visual insights;

- Suggested sources for further exploration, including videos and online media.

Essential reading for undergraduate students and anyone working in policy, advocacy or social change--offering the tools to think critically, act thoughtfully and engage with today's most pressing global challenges.

Review Quotes

'To resist environmental collapse and challenge devastating inequalities requires facts, analysis and sociological imagination. This brilliant collection offers all three. Thought-provoking, evidence-based, and accessible, it is a powerful resource to build more hopeful futures. Sociology at its best.' Bridget Anderson, University of Bristol

'There is widespread recognition that our world is facing immense, seemingly insurmountable problems--from climate change and inequality to migration, waste and disease. Yet a systematic examination of these global challenges--probing their roots and exploring potential solutions--is an entirely different task. Interrogating the Global Social Challenges does exactly that. With its worldwide perspective and accessible language, this book is a real delight to read. And it's not just for college students--everyone should read it.' Asef Bayat, University of Illinois

About the Author

Kevin Gillan is a Senior Lecturer in Sociology at the University of Manchester.

Vanessa May is Professor of Sociology at the University of Manchester and a member of the Morgan Centre for Research into Everyday Lives.