This introductory textbook uses familiar experiences to explain the concepts basic to sociology, including individuals, society, the social construction of knowledge, culture and history, socialization and identity, the presentation of the self, intimacy and family, deviance, organizations and institutions, stratification and class, race and ethnicity, sex and gender, demographic trends, and change. Newman teaches sociology at DePauw University. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR