This provocative introduction to the principles of sociology encourages students to develop a 'sociological imagination', enabling them to see how their position in society and in history shapes their personal lives. The authors use a critical approach, raising analytical questions and exploring the social forces that affect each individual's life and life chances. Discussions of race, class, gender, state of able-bodiedness, and sexual orientation feature throughout the text. Focusing on the influence of power and privilege on society's haves and have-nots, the authors suggest the need for social change.