The third edition of the most widely used introduction to Australian sociology, designed as a flexible learning tool. It takes an applied approach, demonstrating the value of a sociological perspective on contemporary Australian life.

What is the connection between our personal troubles and underlying public issues?

Public Sociology focuses on the utility and relevance of a sociological perspective to every aspect of social life. The aim is to encourage in students the ability to critically reflect upon the forces - both local and global - shaping their own lives and the communities in which they live.

The previous two editions of Public Sociology have established the book as one of the most popular and accessible introductory sociology texts. The third edition has been thoroughly revised and updated to incorporate important themes in contemporary society including drug culture and digital technology. The authors reveal how the tools of sociological training and an empirically grounded sociological perspective are essential to understanding and engaging with contemporary Australian society.

New to the Third Edition: three new chapters on the sociology of drugs, digital sociology, and the social determinants of health and illness; all chapters thoroughly revised and some expanded; expanded glossary and updated introductory vignettes; enhanced book website with extra readings, YouTube clips, and case studies.

'With a firm base in the richest traditions of the discipline and with a remarkably approachable format, this book offers an excellent introduction to a wide array of sociology's concerns, making it suitable for all Australian social science undergraduates.' - Gary Wickham, Emeritus Professor of Sociology, Murdoch University

'A sophisticated yet accessible introduction to social identities, difference and inequalities, and social transformations.' - Jo Lindsay, Associate Professor in Sociology, Monash University

'Sweeping and lucid. communicates with ease and simplicity.' - Professor Toni Makkai, Dean, College of Arts and Social Sciences, Australian National University