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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Frontier Livelihoods: Hmong in the Sino-Vietnamese Borderlands

RM179.00 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.
Uncle John's Bathroom Reader Jingle Bell Christmas
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RM26.00 MYR

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If you love immersing yourself in the holiday spirit with quirky facts and stories, Uncle John's Bathroom Reader Jingle Bell Christmas is up your alley. Picture yourself unwinding during the busy season with tales of Christmas curiosities that are both enlightening and chuckle-worthy. It's the perfect companion for those moments of escape, bringing joy and amusement with every page.
Aceh: A New Dawn

RM97.00 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.
Out of Eden: The Peopling of the World

RM37.00 MYR

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52% 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.
Behind the Veil of Vice: The Business and Culture of Sex in the Middle East

RM45.00 MYR

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53% off est. retail
This book is for those looking to understand the complexities of Middle Eastern society beyond the headlines. Bradley's exploration is both daring and enlightening, pulling back the curtain on a taboo subject to reveal a cultural landscape that many readers may find surprising and thought-provoking. It's a deep dive into a world that is rarely discussed openly, offering valuable insights into the social fabric of these regions.
Food and Society in Classical Antiquity
Garnsey | Cambridge University Press

Food and Society in Classical Antiquity

RM93.00 MYR

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Goodreads rating: 3.96

RM93.00 MYR

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47% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by how the most basic human need shapes culture, history, and social structures, "Food and Society in Classical Antiquity" will be a fascinating read for you. It's not just about what ancient people ate, but how their diet influenced their social hierarchy, rituals, and overall health. Dive deep into historical details that will enrich your understanding of classical societies.
The Trouble with Names : Forms of Address in Asia - Thryft
Hyacinth Gaudart | Snp Editions

The Trouble with Names : Forms of Address in Asia

Regular price RM22.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 32% off

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Goodreads rating: 5.0

Regular price RM22.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 32% off

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This book is a treasure trove for anyone seeking to understand the cultural intricacies involved in addressing others in Asia. With clear and concise explanations, Hyacinth Gaudart opens up a world of cultural knowledge that can help readers conduct themselves with grace and courtesy, regardless of where they are in Asia. Whether you are a tourist, student, or business professional, this book is an essential guide to avoiding social missteps and making lasting connections.
The Children's Culture Reader
Henry Jenkins | Nyu Press

The Children's Culture Reader

RM71.00 MYR

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Goodreads rating: 3.93

RM71.00 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.
Origins of Chinese People and Customs
Li Xiaoxiang | Asiapac Books

Origins of Chinese People and Customs

RM15.00 MYR

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Goodreads rating: 0.0

RM15.00 MYR

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If you're intrigued by the richness of Chinese culture and their age-old traditions, "Origins of Chinese People and Customs" can serve as your gateway to understanding the underlying values that have shaped one of the world's oldest civilizations. It's a concise guide that can deepen your appreciation for the customs and societal norms that continue to influence modern China.
Orientalism: Western Concepts of the Orient
Edward W. Said | Penguin

Orientalism: Western Concepts of the Orient

RM93.00 MYR

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Goodreads rating: 4.13

RM93.00 MYR

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If you're intrigued by how the East is perceived through Western lens, "Orientalism" by Edward Said is a crucial read. Said's meticulous dissection of Western stereotypes reshapes our understanding of cultural identity and power dynamics. It's a landmark critique that will illuminate and challenge the way you think about cultural representation.
Figures of Southeast Asian Modernity

RM34.00 MYR

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If you're intrigued by the social tapestry of Southeast Asia, "Figures of Southeast Asian Modernity" is a window into the heart of its diverse cultures. Through vivid portraits, this ethnographic collection captures the region's dynamism, offering you an authentic perspective often missing in traditional academic texts. It's a thoughtful exploration that feels personal and real, like having a series of intimate conversations with the very fabric of modern Southeast Asia.
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.
Nation, Culture, Text: Australian Cultural and Media Studies

RM60.00 MYR

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75% off est. retail
If you're keen on understanding how cultural identities are both shaped and reflected through media, "Nation, Culture, Text" is a perfect deep dive. It doesn't just offer academic insights; it dissects Australian society in a way that's thorough yet accessible, making it a fascinating guide for both students and curious minds looking to explore cultural studies from an Australian perspective.
Culture and the City in East Asia

RM231.00 MYR

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If you're fascinated by how urban landscapes shape and reflect culture, this deep dive into East Asian cities will resonate with you. It marries geography with social sciences to uncover how these bustling metropolises are not just economic giants but are also crucibles of cultural identity and transformation.
The Guinness Encyclopedia of Signs & Symbols

RM45.00 MYR

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If you're intrigued by the stories symbols tell us and their significance across different cultures, "The Guinness Encyclopedia of Signs & Symbols" is an enlightening journey you shouldn't miss. It's a treasure trove of information that deciphers the language of symbols, which is perfect for anyone with a curiosity for history, art, or anthropology.
Fields, Forest, and Family: Women's Work and Power in Rural Laos
Carol J. Ireson | Perseus

Fields, Forest, and Family: Women's Work and Power in Rural Laos

Regular price RM89.00 MYR RM71.00 MYR 20% off

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Goodreads rating: 4.0

Regular price RM89.00 MYR RM71.00 MYR 20% off

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70% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the intersection of culture, politics, and gender, "Fields, Forest, And Family" offers an eye-opening journey. Carol Ireson's decade-long research unpacks the post-war shifts in Laos, illustrating the profound impact on the livelihoods and autonomy of rural women. It's a thoughtful exploration of resilience and adaptation that could alter your understanding of women's empowerment in developing contexts.
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

Regular price RM37.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 59% off

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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.
Nicknames: Their Origins and Social Consequences - Social Worlds of Childhood

RM34.00 MYR

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If you're fascinated by the quirky names we give each other and how they stick, "Nicknames: Their Origins and Social Consequences" delves into this slice of social interaction with scholarly insight. Reading it, you'll gain a deeper understanding of what your own nickname might say about your place in the social world.
Tracing Silences: Towards an Anthropology of the Unspoken and Unspeakable

RM339.00 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.
Vientiane: Transformations of a Lao Landscape

RM264.00 MYR

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If you're intrigued by cities with layers of untold stories, "Vientiane: Transformations of a Lao landscape" offers a rare glimpse into the dynamic past and present of Laos' capital. It's an enlightening deep dive for anyone looking to understand the interplay between a city's architecture, its geopolitical significance, and the cultural identity of its people, far beyond the usual rural depictions of Laos. This book invites readers to explore urban narratives often left on the margins.
Mythology: Selected Readings
Pierre Maranda | Penguin Books

Mythology: Selected Readings

RM34.00 MYR

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Goodreads rating: 2.8

RM34.00 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.
Everyday Life in Southeast Asia
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RM41.00 MYR

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71% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by cultural diversity and human stories, "Everyday Life in Southeast Asia" is a genuine treat. It doesn't just list facts; it immerses you in the lived experiences of ordinary people across an incredibly varied region. Beyond a mere textbook, it's a collection of narratives that weave together the threads of identity, family, and the palpable legacies of both past and present Southeast Asia.
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 History of White People
New
Nell Irvin Painter | W. W. Norton & Company

The History of White People

RM34.00 MYR

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Goodreads rating: 4.07

RM34.00 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.
Housing in Southeast Asian Capital Cities
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RM45.00 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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RM52.00 MYR

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54% 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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RM71.00 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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RM34.00 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.
The Human Past: World Prehistory & The Development of Human Societies - Thryft
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Christopher Scarre | Thames & Hudson

The Human Past: World Prehistory & The Development of Human Societies

Regular price RM63.00 MYR RM45.00 MYR 29% off

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Goodreads rating: 3.8

Regular price RM63.00 MYR RM45.00 MYR 29% off

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77% off est. retail
"The Human Past" is a treasure for anyone intrigued by the depths of our ancestral heritage. Christopher Scarce's extensive volume, graced with insights from a host of archaeological experts, paints a vivid picture of how humanity has evolved socially, culturally, and economically over the span of millions of years. If stories of ancient civilizations and the ways archaeologists uncover the past fascinate you, this book will be an invaluable guide through the epochs.
Other Tribes, Other Scribes: Symbolic Anthropology in the Comparative Study of Cultures, Histories, Religions and Texts
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Regular price RM67.00 MYR RM56.00 MYR 16% off

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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

Regular price RM52.00 MYR RM41.00 MYR 21% off

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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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63% 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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RM34.00 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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RM37.00 MYR

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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

RM34.00 MYR

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Goodreads rating: 3.71

RM34.00 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

RM94.00 MYR

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RM94.00 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
The Origins of Political Order: From Prehuman Times to the French Revolution
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RM34.00 MYR

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60% off est. retail
The Origins of Political Order by Francis Fukuyama is an insightful and comprehensive analysis of the development of political systems throughout history. Fukuyama explores the evolution of political systems, tracing the origins of institutions and ideas that shaped society as we know it today. By examining the paths that different societies have taken, this magisterial study provides readers with a better understanding of the origins of political order and how it affects society today. Readers interested in history, politics and anthropology would find this book informative and thought-provoking.
Two Cheers for Anarchism : Six Easy Pieces on Autonomy, Dignity, and Meaningful Work and Play - Thryft
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RM42.00 MYR

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66% 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 RM29.00 MYR RM20.00 MYR 31% off

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75% 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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RM52.00 MYR

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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

Regular price RM49.00 MYR RM30.00 MYR 39% off

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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.