Sociology Books

Explore the depths of human society and social behaviour in our extensive Sociology section. From theories and structures, to issues of globalisation and inequality, our selection offers insightful reads for both casual learners and seasoned sociologists. Delve into pivotal works that examine the narratives shaping our societies today.

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A Reverse Index of Manchu - Thryft

A Reverse Index of Manchu

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78% off est. retail
This book would be a valuable resource for researchers studying the Manchu language, providing a reverse index to aid in their research. It stands out for its comprehensiveness and level of detail.
Frontier Livelihoods: Hmong in the Sino-Vietnamese Borderlands

RM175.00 MYR

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69% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the complexities of how ethnic communities adapt to state policies and global market forces in varied political landscapes, "Frontier Livelihoods" could be an enlightening read. This ethnography delivers a nuanced look at the Hmong in Sino-Vietnamese borderlands, offering a compelling case for transnational studies over country-centric research. It's an in-depth exploration of resilience and agency among communities that navigate the challenges of development and modernization on their own terms.
Working the Night Shift - Women in India’s Call Center Industry - Thryft
Reena Patel | Orient Blackswan

Working the Night Shift - Women in India’s Call Center Industry

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Goodreads rating: 3.46

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If you're intrigued by the intersection of culture, gender, and economics, "Working the Night Shift" offers a compelling look at how globalization is reshaping the lives of Indian women. It's a deep dive into the personal stories behind a booming industry, exploring the societal shifts and the new identity challenges these women face. It’s a relevant read for those interested in understanding the complex dynamics of modern, global workplaces and the evolving roles of women within them.
The Maya
R. Wood | Hodder & Stoughton Childrens Division

The Maya

Regular price RM91.00 MYR RM47.00 MYR 48% off

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Goodreads rating: 0.0

Regular price RM91.00 MYR RM47.00 MYR 48% off

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Delve into "The Maya" to time-travel back to a world rich with intricate writing systems, advanced farming techniques, and awe-inspiring temples. Imagine yourself witnessing the rituals that vibrated at the heart of Mayan culture. It's perfect for satisfying a curiosity about ancient societies and understanding a civilization that continues to influence the modern world.
Origins of Chinese People and Customs (Spanish Edition) - Thryft

RM18.00 MYR

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From early man through modern weddings, this survey of the way Chinese people live is a fascinating exploration of popular customs. With a good discussion of children s name and customs of bringing up children.
The Sacred Cow and the Abominable Pig: Riddles of Food and Culture

RM40.00 MYR

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If you've ever marveled at how societies decide what's delicious and what's off-limits, "The Sacred Cow and the Abominable Pig" offers fascinating insights. Marvin Harris delves into the anthropology of food, revealing the complexities behind dietary choices across cultures. From sacred animals to forbidden meats, this book will expand your understanding of food's role in identity and tradition, making you rethink your next meal.
Journeys Through Southeast Asia: Ceritalah 2

RM15.00 MYR

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As someone fascinated by the diversity and complexity of Southeast Asia, you'll find Karim Raslan's "Journeys through Southeast Asia: Ceritalah 2" immensely enlightening. Raslan's penchant for keen observation and his vivid storytelling bring out the color and contrasts of the region. It's not just a travelogue but a deeper exploration of the communities, politics, and cultures that make up this vibrant part of the world. Whether it's the busy streets of Rangoon or the quiet musings of local artists, this book promises to take you on a journey that's as educational as it is entertaining.
Aceh: A New Dawn

RM95.00 MYR

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If you're intrigued by stories of human resilience and the tremulous path to restoration after a disaster, "Aceh: A New Dawn" could resonate with you. It's an insightful examination of Aceh's community as they rebuild after the 2004 tsunami—a testament to the unyielding human spirit. This book might offer not just a glimpse into the socio-economic aftermath but also the indomitable will to forge a new future.
True Singapore Ghost Stories Book 19
Russell Lee | Angsana Books

True Singapore Ghost Stories Book 19

RM29.00 MYR

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Goodreads rating: 2.75

RM29.00 MYR

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This book is perfect for those who enjoy spine-chilling stories that are rooted in a specific cultural context. True Singapore Ghost Stories Book 19 offers a unique perspective on supernatural encounters and explores the rich folklore of Singapore. With each story carefully documented and narrated, readers will be enthralled by the mysterious and eerie atmosphere that lingers throughout the book. Get ready to embark on a thrilling journey into Singapore's haunted history.
Mythology: Selected Readings
Pierre Maranda | Penguin Books

Mythology: Selected Readings

RM33.00 MYR

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Goodreads rating: 2.8

RM33.00 MYR

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If you're fascinated by the stories that have shaped cultures across the world, "Mythology: Selected Readings" is a gem waiting to be discovered. It's like a window into the collective psyche of societies, examining the myths that have been the bedrock of social norms and personal identity. It's not just a book; it's a journey through time and imagination, offering insight into human nature and our shared history.
The Children's Culture Reader
Henry Jenkins | Nyu Press

The Children's Culture Reader

RM69.00 MYR

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Goodreads rating: 3.93

RM69.00 MYR

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71% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by how society shapes and is shaped by its youngest members, "The Children's Culture Reader" is a thought-provoking anthology that commands attention. It delves into the complexity of childhood and how children actively participate in cultural formation. This book is perfect for you if you appreciate interdisciplinary insights and are keen to understand the deeper connections between children's experiences and broader social trends.
Globalization: The Human Consequences
Just Arrived

RM44.00 MYR

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If you're questioning how globalization truly affects individuals and societies, Bauman's book could redefine your perspective. It's a thought-provoking read that digs into the complexities, challenging the popular narrative that globalization benefits everyone equally. It will suit you if you enjoy deep sociological insights and are ready to confront the often unsettling realities of our interconnected world.
The Dyirbal Language of North Queensland
R.M.W. Dixon | Cambridge University Press

The Dyirbal Language of North Queensland

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Goodreads rating: 4.5

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75% off est. retail
Learning about the Dyirbal language is like unearthing a hidden cultural treasure, providing an intimate glimpse into the ancient wisdom and beauty of the indigenous tribes of North Queensland. It's not just a linguistic journey, but a sobering look at the effects of colonization, viewed through the lens of language and cultural survival. You'll find yourself moved by the resilience and dignity of the people who speak it.
Japan in Your Pocket 17: Japanese Family & Culture

RM37.00 MYR

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If you're intrigued by the intricacies of Japan's social fabric, this book sheds light on the intimate aspects of Japanese family life and culture. It's ideal for those planning to visit Japan or simply interested in understanding the societal norms that shape Japanese interactions. A deep dive that's both educational and enriching.
The East in the West
Just Arrived
Jack Goody | Cambridge University Press

The East in the West

RM37.00 MYR

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Goodreads rating: 3.32

RM37.00 MYR

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84% off est. retail
"The East in the West" might change your perspective on history and cultural development. Jack Goody takes on the challenge of debunking long-held Western notions about Asian societies. If you're someone who is interested in understanding how the East has been historically misinterpreted and want to delve into a more nuanced view of historical progress and cultural exchange, this book offers a compelling examination. It's a thought-provoking read that will likely reshape your understanding of global history.
Language and Solitude: Wittgenstein, Malinowski and the Habsburg Dilemma

RM102.00 MYR

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51% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the intellectual legacies shaped by historical contexts, Gellner's "Language and Solitude" offers a compelling narrative. It might be an enriching read for you, as it delves into how the Habsburg Empire's cultural milieu influenced two prominent thinkers' views on language and society. This synthesis of philosophy and anthropology could broaden your understanding of ideas that transcend their time and place.
Tracing Silences: Towards an Anthropology of the Unspoken and Unspeakable

RM332.00 MYR

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65% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the nuanced ways in which what is left unsaid shapes our lives and histories, "Tracing Silences" could enrich your perspective. It's not just about what we can hear but also about what we can't, and how those voids speak volumes about our societies. This book offers a deep dive into the anthropological and historical implications of silence, making it a thought-provoking read for those interested in the undercurrents of human interaction and communication.
Out of Eden: The Peopling of the World

RM37.00 MYR

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51% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the thought of all humans sharing a single ancestral mother and have an interest in how we spread across the globe, "Out of Eden" is a book you shouldn't miss. Oppenheimer expertly uses genetics to unfold our migratory history, offering insights that challenge conventional wisdom. It's like a journey back in time, piecing together the great puzzle of our past.
Wrapping Culture: Politeness, Presentation and Power in Japan and Other Societies

RM197.00 MYR

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If you've ever marveled at the intricacies of cultural expression or pondered why societies do things a certain way, "Wrapping Culture" could illuminate those corners of human behavior for you. Joy Hendry thoughtfully explores how different cultures communicate through layers of symbolism, from the physical act of gift-wrapping to complex social customs. It's a fascinating deep dive into intercultural communication that might just change the way you perceive and interact with the world around you.
Watching the English: The Hidden Rules of English Behaviour
Kate Fox | Hodder & Stoughton

Watching the English: The Hidden Rules of English Behaviour

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Goodreads rating: 3.91

Regular price RM37.00 MYR RM29.00 MYR 22% off

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55% off est. retail
Delving into "Watching the English" is akin to being handed a secret map to navigate the intricate labyrinth of English culture. Kate Fox's approach is both scholarly and accessible, allowing you to chuckle while you appreciate the subtleties that make English people tick. It's perfect for anyone intrigued by cultural idiosyncrasies or for an expat attempting to decode the social maze of England.
Development and Social Change: A Global Perspective

RM51.00 MYR

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Development and Social Change: A Global Perspective is a great read for those who seek an in-depth understanding of globalization and its impacts. It provides a world-historical, political, and ecological perspective to situate globalization in the declining fortunes of the postwar development project. The book emphasizes resistance and social movements as actors shaping the meaning and direction of these projects, in addition to building alternatives. The case studies make the intricacies of globalization concrete, meaningful, and clear for students. The book challenges readers to recognize themselves as global citizens whose consumption decisions have real social and ecological implications.
Moro East
Just Arrived
Samuel Clark, Samantha Clark  | Ebury Press

Moro East

RM98.00 MYR

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Goodreads rating: 4.36

RM98.00 MYR

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"Moro East" might just inspire your next kitchen adventure with its unique blend of Spanish and Muslim Mediterranean flavors, straight from the bustling energy of an East End allotment. The Clarks have woven the vibrant community spirit into every recipe, offering a culinary experience that feels both personal and expansive. If you're looking to refresh your palate with unpretentious, bold flavors amidst tales of communal joy, this could be your perfect cookbook companion.
Jokes, Riddles & Proverbs From Asia & The Pacific
Various

Jokes, Riddles & Proverbs From Asia & The Pacific

RM15.00 MYR

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Goodreads rating: 5.0

RM15.00 MYR

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If you're curious about the wit and wisdom that various Asian and Pacific cultures have to offer, this compilation is a delightful treasure trove. It's not just for laughs; it's an educational journey through folklore and time-honored sayings. You'll find yourself both entertained and enlightened as you flip through the pages and discover proverbs that have guided generations.
The History of White People
Nell Irvin Painter | W. W. Norton & Company

The History of White People

RM33.00 MYR

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Goodreads rating: 4.07

RM33.00 MYR

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79% off est. retail
Dive into "The History of White People" for a profound exploration beyond the often-frontlined stories of racial minorities. Nell Irvin Painter's work challenges readers to confront the socio-historical constructs of race and whiteness, making it a crucial read for anyone interested in understanding the deep-seated roots and impacts of racial concepts on Western civilization. It's a history buff's treasure and a thought-provoker for the socially conscious.
Geisha: The Secret History of a Vanishing World
Just Arrived
Lesley Downer | Headline

Geisha: The Secret History of a Vanishing World

RM40.00 MYR

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Goodreads rating: 3.9

RM40.00 MYR

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49% off est. retail
If you're drawn to the enigmatic world of geisha, often misconstrued in Western media, Lesley Downer's book is a revealing ticket to understanding. It peels away layers of misconceptions, inviting you into a complex social art form that's integral to Japanese heritage. Dive in, and emerge with a nuanced perspective of these captivating "arts people."
Housing in Southeast Asian Capital Cities
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RM44.00 MYR

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If you're fascinated by urban development and the complexities of city life in the dynamic context of Southeast Asia, "Housing in Southeast Asian Capital Cities" could be a thought-provoking read. It delves into the heart of critical issues affecting burgeoning metropolises, offering a blend of scholarly insight and real-world case studies that could widen your understanding of urban planning struggles and progress in this vibrant region.
Market Society: Markets and Modern Social Theory
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RM51.00 MYR

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53% off est. retail
If you're keen on understanding how markets shape and are shaped by society, "Market Society" could be the book for you. It's not just about economics; it's a broader take on how markets integrate with social actions and relationships. Plus, it's designed to be accessible, so you don't need to be an academic to digest its insights about the intersection of markets with culture and politics.
A History of Private Life: From the Fires of Revolution to the Great War
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If you're fascinated by the transformation of personal and social boundaries during a period of explosive change, 'A History of Private Life. 4 From the Fires of Revolution to the Great War' beckons you. Journey through a century’s milestones in individuality, domestic norms, and the reshaping of Western existence, laid out in rich detail by expert historians. This book would be like a time machine for someone who wants to understand the roots of contemporary private life and its interplay with public affairs right before the world-altering impact of the Great War.
Music and Gender: Perspectives from the Mediterranean
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RM69.00 MYR

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68% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by how culture shapes art, "Music and Gender" offers a compelling dive into the Mediterranean's musical tapestry through the lens of gender studies. It's not just about notes and rhythms; it's a journey into how music reflects, challenges, and shapes identities, bringing a scholarly but accessible exploration of sociology and ethnomusicology to your fingertips. This book could broaden your perspective on the power of music within different societies.
Endangered Peoples
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Art Davidson | Sierra Club

Endangered Peoples

RM37.00 MYR

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Goodreads rating: 4.11

RM37.00 MYR

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If you feel a profound respect for indigenous cultures and want to understand their struggles against overwhelming odds, "Endangered Peoples" could resonate deeply with you. This book provides an intimate look at the lives, challenges, and resilience of native communities, paired with powerful photography that brings the narrative to life. It's not just a read, it's an emotional journey that acknowledges the human faces behind urgent global issues.
History of the World in 100 Modern Objects: Middle-Class Stuff (and Nonsense)
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RM33.00 MYR

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73% off est. retail
If the quirks and trappings of modern middle-class life fascinate you, "History of the World in 100 Modern Objects" is your cup of tea. Hornak's columns are like peering through a series of windows into everyday moments that are at once humorous and identifiable. It's cultural commentary wrapped in charm, perfectly complemented by Joyce's vibrant illustrations—a light-hearted read that's bound to elicit knowing nods and chuckles.
Other Tribes, Other Scribes: Symbolic Anthropology in the Comparative Study of Cultures, Histories, Religions and Texts
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If you're fascinated by how culture shapes our understanding of the world, "Other Tribes, Other Scribes" is a treasure trove. James A. Boon masterfully traces the lineage of thought behind interpreting symbolic behavior across societies. This book isn't just an academic read; it's an intellectual journey connecting anthropology, literature, and history, offering a fascinating collage of perspectives. Give it a read and see how the rich tapestry of human culture is pieced together by the minds that have studied it.
Tasting Food, Tasting Freedom: Excursions into Eating, Power, and the Past
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Sidney W. Mintz | Beacon Press

Tasting Food, Tasting Freedom: Excursions into Eating, Power, and the Past

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Goodreads rating: 3.64

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65% off est. retail
If you're curious about the intersection of culture, power, and the food on your plate, "Tasting Food, Tasting Freedom" is a tour de force that delves into the deep meanings behind eating practices. Sidney Mintz gives you a scholarly yet accessible perspective on how food choices are intricately linked with history and economy, enriching your understanding of American culinary identity.
Sweetness and Power: The Place of Sugar in Modern History
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RM31.00 MYR

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62% off est. retail
Diving into "Sweetness and Power" will unravel the surprising ways sugar has shaped our world, intertwining with complex issues like slavery and economic power. It's a fascinating lens through which to view history, offering a nuanced perspective on how a simple craving influenced social structures and dietary patterns. If you're looking to sweeten your historical knowledge with an unconventional story, this book's for you.
Food, Society, and Environment
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RM33.00 MYR

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If you're curious about the intersection of our eating habits with societal shifts and environmental sustainability, "Food, Society, and Environment" might just feed your curiosity. It's not just a narrative of food through the ages - it's an insightful dissection of how our plates reflect and affect the world we live in, from social justice to ecological impacts. For anyone with a hunger for understanding the broader implications of what's on our forks, this book is a hearty meal for thought.
Time and the Other: How Anthropology Makes Its Object
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Johannes Fabian's "Time and the Other" would resonate with you if you're intrigued by the intricate ways in which the concept of time influences our understanding of culture and society. It's a thought-provoking read that delves into how anthropologists engage with their subjects, urging a critical look at the relationship between the observer and the observed. The book challenges conventional methodologies and will appeal to your desire for a deeper understanding of the human condition through the lens of time.
The Study of Culture
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L.L. Langness | Chandler & Sharp Publishers, Inc.

The Study of Culture

RM33.00 MYR

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Goodreads rating: 3.71

RM33.00 MYR

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If you're intrigued by how societies develop and the frameworks through which we understand human behavior, "The Study of Culture" by L.L. Langness is quite the intellection expedition. It’s a profound dive into the evolution of cultural studies, dissecting various schools of thought. Langness's examination cuts across time, contrasting classical and modern perspectives, surely enriching your grasp on cultural anthropology’s textured landscape.
Kinship, Gender, and the Cosmic World: Ethnographies of Birth Customs in Taiwan, the Philippines, and Indonesia
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If you're intrigued by anthropology and the rich tapestry of Southeast Asian cultures, this collection will fascinate you. It's a window into how the deeply personal act of birth is celebrated and ritualized, revealing much about gender roles and cosmic beliefs in these societies. It's not just about the event of birth but a broader understanding of three diverse cultures interwoven by tradition.
The Means Of Naming - Thryft
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The Means Of Naming

RM92.00 MYR

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RM92.00 MYR

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63% off est. retail

Names are never given accidentally; they are chosen and bestowed according to rules that reflect fundamental features of the society and culture concerned. This is a study of the nature and history of naming practices in Western Europe.


Author: Stephen Wilson
Publisher: Routledge
Publication Date: 1998
Two Cheers for Anarchism : Six Easy Pieces on Autonomy, Dignity, and Meaningful Work and Play - Thryft
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RM41.00 MYR

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67% off est. retail
Two Cheers for Anarchism could be a good read for someone looking to challenge traditional structures of hierarchy. Scott offers a unique perspective on everyday social and political interactions that inspire readers to consider constructive anarchism. The book celebrates the ingenuity and judgement of individuals exercising their creative and moral capacities. Readers will enjoy relatable anecdotes and examples that touch on a wide range of subjects, including globalization, assembly-line production, and historical explanation.
The Fall of Public Man - Thryft
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Richard Sennett | Gardners Books

The Fall of Public Man

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Goodreads rating: 4.15

Regular price RM28.00 MYR RM20.00 MYR 29% off

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74% off est. retail
Recommendation: The Fall of Public Man is a thought-provoking analysis of the decline in public life and political involvement in recent decades. Richard Sennett's erudition and historical imagination brilliantly describe the growing imbalance between private and public experience in modern society. This book provides a fascinating perspective on the relationship between public life and the cult of the individual, and argues for a more formal public culture to reconnect with our communities.
Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Survive
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"Collapse" isn't just about the past; it's a thoughtful exploration of the patterns that have led societies to their zenith and their nadir. You'll be taken on a global tour of history, learning from the lessons etched in the remains of once-great civilizations. As you delve into these narratives, you may find yourself pondering the sustainability of our own society. It's a compelling read for those who enjoy history with a side of existential inquiry.
Albion's Seed : Four British Folkways in America - Thryft
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David Hackett Fischer | Oxford University Press

Albion's Seed : Four British Folkways in America

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Goodreads rating: 4.36

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Albion's Seed is a great read for a history enthusiast, particularly those interested in the formation of America's regional cultures. Fischer's work effectively outlines the folkways and cultural differences between early British settlers in America, and how they have persisted to varying degrees in different areas of the country. This book is a valuable resource for understanding American cultural history, and would be a particularly good fit for those studying the social sciences or anyone with a keen interest in American regionalism.

Understanding Social Dynamics

At Thryft, our Sociology section serves as a gateway to understanding complex social structures and behaviours. We offer a wide range of titles covering key sociological theories, modern societal challenges, by influential thinkers. Sociology engages with real world issues, functioning as a lens to view personal and collective social identities. Whether you’re pursuing personal growth or specific academic interests, our collection has something for everyone. Connect with these enlightening works today.