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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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Understanding Jokowi's Foreign Policy - Trends in Southeast Asia
Donald E. Weatherbee | Iseas

Understanding Jokowi's Foreign Policy - Trends in Southeast Asia

RM45.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 51% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

RM45.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 51% off

58% off est. retail
If you're keen on understanding geopolitical nuances in Southeast Asia, this book about Jokowi's foreign policy offers a deep dive. It's not just timely but pivotal for grasping how Indonesia shapes its external relations amidst regional and global challenges. Ideal for readers fascinated by international relations and Southeast Asian politics, it'll give you a fresh perspective on a rising middle power's balancing act.
Geocultural Power: China's Quest to Revive the Silk Roads for the Twenty-First Century
Tim Winter | University Of Chicago Press

Geocultural Power: China's Quest to Revive the Silk Roads for the Twenty-First Century

RM86.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 4.0

RM86.00 MYR

41% off est. retail
For those fascinated by international politics and economics, "Geocultural Power: China's Quest to Revive the Silk Roads for the Twenty-First Century" offers a thought-provoking perspective. It dissects China's contemporary strategy of weaving history with modern ambitions, a move that could redefine global power dynamics. As you delve into the narrative, you’d find it compelling how China is not just reshaping trade routes but also cultural and political narratives. This read is a window into the future of international relations through the lens of the past.
Origins of Chinese People and Customs
Li Xiaoxiang | Asiapac Books

Origins of Chinese People and Customs

RM15.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 0.0

RM15.00 MYR

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.
Brunei: From the Age of Commerce to the 21st Century
Marie Sybille de Vienne | Nus Press (singapore)

Brunei: From the Age of Commerce to the 21st Century

RM89.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.25

RM89.00 MYR

56% off est. retail
If you're a history buff or someone with an interest in Southeast Asia's unique development paths, this book may fascinate you. It ties together Brunei's ancient trading legacy with its contemporary wealth and conservative investments, painting a picture of a nation that's strikingly different from its oil-rich peers. Plus, it peeks into the blend of tradition and modernity, adding texture to the understanding of this small yet prosperous sultanate.
Figures of Southeast Asian Modernity
Johan Lindquist, Joshua Barker, Erik Harms  | University Of Hawaii Press

Figures of Southeast Asian Modernity

RM34.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.33

RM34.00 MYR

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
Karim Raslan | Times Book International

Journeys Through Southeast Asia: Ceritalah 2

RM15.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.54

RM15.00 MYR

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.
Culture and the City in East Asia
Won Bae Kim, Sang-Chuel Choe, Won B. Kim  | Clarendon Press

Culture and the City in East Asia

RM231.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 4.0

RM231.00 MYR

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.
Idea Of Singapore, The: Smallness Unconstrained - Thryft
Tai Yong Tan | Wspc

The Idea of Singapore: Smallness Unconstrained

RM49.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 0.0

RM49.00 MYR

This book would be a fascinating read for anyone interested in uncovering the captivating history of Singapore. Through Professor Tan's engaging lectures, you will gain a deep understanding of how Singapore's past as a regional emporium, colonial port city, and city-state has shaped its present. With its focus on geography, movements of people, networks, and globalization, this book offers valuable insights into the forces that have influenced Singapore's fate and fortunes. Prepare to be enchanted by the twists and turns of Singapore's 700-year history and come away with a greater appreciation of its unique strengths and challenges as a vibrant city-state.
North Korea: The Paranoid Peninsula

North Korea: The Paranoid Peninsula

RM37.00 MYR

RM37.00 MYR

If you're intrigued by the shadows cast by secretive nations, you might find "North Korea: The Paranoid Peninsula" a compelling read. Paul French takes you on an explorative journey within the hidden corridors of the hermit kingdom, shedding light on the daily life, history, and complex policies that shape this elusive state. It's an enlightening dive into a society that sits on a precarious edge, where each page turns deepens the understanding of its global significance.
Vientiane: Transformations of a Lao Landscape
William Logan, Marc Askew, Colin Long  | Routledge/taylor & Francis Group

Vientiane: Transformations of a Lao Landscape

RM264.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 4.0

RM264.00 MYR

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.
Everyday Life in Southeast Asia
New
Holly High, Andrew Causey, Lorraine Aragon  | Indiana University Press

Everyday Life in Southeast Asia

RM41.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 4.11

RM41.00 MYR

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
Japan Travel Bureau | Books Nippan

Japan in Your Pocket 17: Japanese Family & Culture

RM37.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.81

RM37.00 MYR

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.
Our Lives to Live: Putting a Woman's Face to Change in Singapore
Margaret Thomas, Kanwaljit Soin  | Wspc

Our Lives to Live: Putting a Woman's Face to Change in Singapore

RM93.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.83

RM93.00 MYR

36% off est. retail
As someone interested in both history and gender studies, "Our Lives to Live" offers you a compelling look into how women have shaped modern Singapore. This collection, featuring voices from different generations and sectors, brings forward personal and academic narratives that are bound to enrich your understanding of women's roles in societal progress. The diverse experiences and achievements highlighted in this book not only celebrate female contributions but also emphasize ongoing challenges, making it a thought-provoking read that resonates with universal themes of change and empowerment.
Postmodern Singapore
New
William Siew Wai Lim | Select Pub

Postmodern Singapore

RM31.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 5.0

RM31.00 MYR

This book would be of interest to readers looking for a critical analysis of Singapore's social, cultural, and political landscape. Shearman does a fantastic job of dissecting the complexities of modern Singapore by providing a refreshing perspective on the city-state's development. This book stands out because of its unique voice and the author's ability to deconstruct Singapore's progress in a critical yet insightful manner. Overall, Postmodern Singapore is an unmatched read for anyone wanting to examine Singapore's transformation in recent years.
Housing in Southeast Asian Capital Cities
Sold out
Ooi Giok Ling | Institute Of Southeast Asian S

Housing in Southeast Asian Capital Cities

RM45.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 4.5

RM45.00 MYR

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.
Kinship, Gender, and the Cosmic World: Ethnographies of Birth Customs in Taiwan, the Philippines, and Indonesia
Sold out
Katsuhiko (ed) Yamaji | Smc Pub

Kinship, Gender, and the Cosmic World: Ethnographies of Birth Customs in Taiwan, the Philippines, and Indonesia

RM37.00 MYR RM30.00 MYR 19% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

RM37.00 MYR RM30.00 MYR 19% off

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.
Restless Empire: China and the World Since 1750 - Thryft
Sold out
Odd Arne Westad | The Bodley Head Ltd

Restless Empire: China and the World Since 1750

RM45.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 4.03

RM45.00 MYR

As the twenty-first century dawns, China stands at a crossroads. The largest and most populous country on earth and currently the world’s second biggest economy, China has recently reclaimed its historic place at the center of global affairs after decades of internal chaos and disastrous foreign relations. But even as China tentatively reengages with the outside world, the contradictions of its development risks pushing it back into an era of insularity and instability—a regression that, as China’s recent history shows, would have serious implications for all other nations.In Restless Empire, award-winning historian Odd Arne Westad traces China’s complex foreign affairs over the past 250 years, identifying the forces that will determine the country’s path in the decades to come. Since the height of the Qing Empire in the eighteenth century, China’s interactions—and confrontations—with foreign powers have caused its worldview to fluctuate wildly between extremes of dominance and subjugation, emulation and defiance. From the invasion of Burma in the 1760s to the Boxer Rebellion in the early 20th century to the 2001 standoff over a downed U.S. spy plane, many of these encounters have left Chinese with a lingering sense of humiliation and resentment, and inflamed their notions of justice, hierarchy, and Chinese centrality in world affairs. Recently, China’s rising influence on the world stage has shown what the country stands to gain from international cooperation and openness. But as Westad shows, the nation’s success will ultimately hinge on its ability to engage with potential international partners while simultaneously safeguarding its own strength and stability.An in-depth study by one of our most respected authorities on international relations and contemporary East Asian history, Restless Empire is essential reading for anyone wishing to understand the recent past and probable future of this dynamic and complex nation.
Can Asians Think?
Sold out
kishore-mahbubani | Times Books International

Can Asians Think?

RM30.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.77

RM30.00 MYR

If you're looking to step outside the familiar Western viewpoint and understand a bit more about Asian perspectives, "Can Asians Think?" will offer you that chance. Kishore Mahbubani delivers a stirring critique of Western triumphalism and invites readers, whether from the East or West, to engage with provocative questions and alternative ideas concerning geopolitics, culture, and intellectual diversity. It's a powerful read for anyone interested in global thinking and cultural introspection.
Factory Girls: Voices from the Heart of Modern China
Sold out
Leslie T. Chang | Picador Usa

Factory Girls: Voices from the Heart of Modern China

RM34.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.93

RM34.00 MYR

46% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the personal stories behind the headlines of China's economic surge, "Factory Girls" is for you. Leslie T. Chang dives deep into the lives of two women navigating the chaotic world of migrant labor, shedding light on the human cost of the products we often take for granted. It offers a profound, eye-opening experience that's both socially relevant and emotionally resonant.
China Is Messing with Your Mind
Sold out
Bilahari Kausikan | Epigram Books

China Is Messing with Your Mind

RM34.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.77

RM34.00 MYR

If you're keen on understanding the broader geopolitical maneuvers and their impacts on a personal and national identity, "China is Messing with Your Mind" could intrigue you. Kausikan's experience as a diplomat enriches this book with authenticity and provides a non-conventional perspective on the tensions between global powers and their subtle cultural influences, particularly for Singapore. It's an especially relevant read if you're interested in international affairs, identity politics, or the dynamics of Asian geopolitics.
Journeys through Southeast Asia: ceritalah 2 - Thryft
Sold out
Karim Raslan | Times Book International

Journeys through Southeast Asia: ceritalah 2

RM19.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.54

RM19.00 MYR

This book would be a great read for adventurous souls curious about the rich tapestry of Southeast Asia. Karim Raslan takes you on a mesmerizing journey, uncovering the untold stories and unexplored corners of this vibrant region. Through his keen observations and captivating storytelling, he brings to life the thriving Muslim enclaves of Buddhist Thailand, the forgotten glamour of 1930s Rangoon, and the mesmerizing kratons in Solo. Prepare to be immersed in the beauty, diversity, and complexity of Southeast Asia like never before.
Once a Jolly Hangman: Singapore Justice in the Dock
Sold out
Alan Shadrake | October 6, 2010

Once a Jolly Hangman: Singapore Justice in the Dock

RM34.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.47

RM34.00 MYR

80% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the dark underbelly of Singapore's legal system. Through in-depth interviews and meticulously researched accounts, Alan Shadrake exposes the cruelty and imprudence of the death penalty. The author's empathy with the victims and their families adds a poignant touch to this eye-opening critique. Human rights activists, in particular, will find this book to be an invaluable resource in their fight for justice.
Chinese Language and Culture : An Intermediate Reader - Thryft
Sold out
Weijia Huang, Qun Ao  | The Chinese University Of Hong Kong Press

Chinese Language and Culture : An Intermediate Reader

RM44.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 4.14

RM44.00 MYR

69% off est. retail
This book is perfect for intermediate learners who want to further immerse themselves within Chinese language and culture. Each article provides a unique perspective on an aspect of Chinese society, history or geography, and is supplemented by helpful grammatical notes and exercises. Readers will find this book a valuable resource for gaining a deeper understanding of Chinese culture while simultaneously improving their language abilities.
Asia's High Performing Education Systems : The Case of Hong Kong - Thryft
Sold out
Colin J. Marsh, John Chi-kin Lee  | Routledge

Asia's High Performing Education Systems : The Case of Hong Kong

RM15.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 4.0

RM15.00 MYR

93% off est. retail
This book provides a deep understanding of Hong Kong's education system and highlights successful reforms that have brought about a major impact on schooling. It covers themes such as historical policy contexts, new curriculum approaches, changing pedagogies, school leadership, implementation and change, and assessment and evaluation. Recommended for educators who are interested in understanding and learning from successful education reform initiatives.
Southeast Asia : The Diversity Dilemma - Thryft
Sold out
Sree Kumar | Select Books Pte Ltd

Southeast Asia : The Diversity Dilemma

RM44.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.0

RM44.00 MYR

Southeast Asia: The Diversity Dilemma provides an insightful look into the complex identity and diversity of Southeast Asia, exploring both the intra-regional concerns and external forces that shape the region. This book is recommended for those interested in understanding the development and evolution of Southeast Asia's regional identity in the context of global influences.
China : A New History - Thryft
Sold out
John King Fairbank, Merle Goldman  | Belknap

China : A New History

RM39.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.88

RM39.00 MYR

68% off est. retail
Recommended for history enthusiasts, traces China's rich civilization through its ups and downs with a focus on the struggles of forming and maintaining a cohesive identity, while fiercely protecting individualism, the book offers an insight into how family, intellect, and autocratic rule blend to form what is contemporary China.
Can Asians Think? - Thryft
Sold out
Kishore Mahbubani | Times Editions

Can Asians Think?

RM26.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.76

RM26.00 MYR

"This book challenges the notion of Western universality by presenting a unique perspective on the role of the United Nations from someone who sat on the UN Security Council for two years. Mahbubani's essays are thought-provoking yet easy to read, and his new additions provide up-to-date insights. Recommended for those interested in international relations and politics."
Air-Conditioned Nation Revisited
Sold out
Cherian George | Ethos Books

Air-Conditioned Nation Revisited

RM45.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 4.42

RM45.00 MYR

49% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for anyone interested in understanding the intricate blend of comfort and central control in Singapore's society. Through a compilation of essays by Cherian George, it provides critical insights into the country's political culture, shedding light on both its mastery of the environment and the potential risks it poses to individual autonomy and sustainability. With updated reflections on continuity and change, this 20th anniversary edition offers a comprehensive exploration of Singapore's unique societal dynamics, making it a must-read for those intrigued by the complexities of this nation.

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.