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Overview
Now in a new edition, Social Problems: An Introduction to Critical Constructionism synthesizes conflict theory and social constructionism to help students think critically about social problems. A concise, student-friendly alternative to all-encompassing standard textbooks, this book examines a single theoretical paradigm in depth, demonstrating how theory can be used to understand a breadth of real world structures.
Robert Heiner focuses on the four problems most often encountered in social problems courses: inequality, family, crime and deviance, and overpopulation and the environment. Heiner's critical approach helps students conceive of societal problems as socially constructed phenomena whose importance varies according to media attention and the agendas of particular interest groups. Furthermore, his critical point of view leads students to reevaluate their own preconceived notions and beliefs, in turn generating lively classroom discussions.
Revised and updated in this third edition, Social Problems now includes a glossary of key terms and reinforcing end-of-chapter questions, as well as new discussions of such issues as immigration. Additional graphics help visually illustrate key concepts and ideas.
Social Problems: An Introduction to Critical Constructionism, Third Edition, is ideal for social problems courses. Given its readability and consistent application of theory, this book could also be used in introductory sociology courses and social theory courses.
Synopsis
Why do certain problems and not others capture the public's attention at some times and not at others? Research indicates that there is frequently little or no correlation between the intensity of public concern and the seriousness of the social problem concerned. Certain interest groups have the power to draw the public's attention toward certain problems and away from others. This book provides a paradigm for thinking critically about social problem construction and about how many popular constructions benefit powerful interests at the expense of society's interest. Unlike most standard social problem texts, Social Problems examines a single theoretical paradigm in depth and demonstrates how theory can be used to understand a breadth of real world phenomena, including problems relating to inequality, the family, crime, and the environment. A much-needed cross-cultural emphasis is used to illustrate the range of possibilities in which social problems and their solutions can be conceived. Special attention is given to the role of the media and of corporate interest in problem construction and to the effects of globalization.