Introduction to Global Social Problems: Understanding Inequalities of Power and Social Justice

Introduction to Global Social Problems: Understanding Inequalities of Power and Social Justice

Publisher
Routledge
Published
2026
Pages
518
ISBN-13
9781032991931
Format
print
Language
English

"Introduction to Global Social Problems introduces undergraduate students to national and international social problems from a critical sociological perspective. Isaac Zvi Christi…

Book Summary
This textbook offers undergraduates a critical sociological introduction to global social problems, linking national and international issues through the lens of power inequalities and social justice. Isaac Zvi Christiansen provides clear descriptions, key concepts, and theoretical tools to help students understand the interconnected nature of phenomena like poverty, inequality, and injustice across societies.
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About Introduction to Global Social Problems: Understanding Inequalities of Power and Social Justice

Introduction to Global Social Problems: Understanding Inequalities of Power and Social Justice is a comprehensive undergraduate textbook by Isaac Zvi Christiansen. It adopts a critical sociological perspective to examine national and international social problems, emphasizing how power imbalances and social justice concerns shape these issues. Each chapter presents clear descriptions of specific problems, explains essential concepts, and equips students with relevant theoretical frameworks. The book highlights the interconnected nature of global phenomena, encouraging readers to think critically about causes and consequences. Designed for classroom use, it balances accessibility with academic rigor, making complex ideas approachable for students new to sociology. By focusing on power and justice, Christiansen challenges readers to move beyond surface-level explanations and consider structural factors. This text is ideal for courses on social problems, globalization, and social justice, providing a solid foundation for analysis and discussion.

Who should read Introduction to Global Social Problems: Understanding Inequalities of Power and Social Justice?

Undergraduate students in sociology, social work, political science, and global studies will find this text essential for courses on social problems and social justice. Instructors seeking a critical, accessible framework for teaching global inequalities will benefit from its clear structure and theoretical tools. Activists, policymakers, and general readers interested in understanding the root causes of global issues and the role of power dynamics will also gain valuable insights from Christiansen’s analysis.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • ✓ Clear and accessible writing suitable for undergraduates new to sociology
  • ✓ Strong critical sociological framework emphasizing power and social justice
  • ✓ Balances national and international perspectives on social problems
  • ✓ Provides key concepts and theoretical tools for analysis
  • ✓ Encourages critical thinking about interconnected global issues
Cons
  • ✗ May be too introductory for advanced sociology students
  • ✗ Focus on critical perspective might not suit all instructors’ approaches
  • ✗ Limited coverage of some specialized social problems
  • ✗ Lacks extensive case studies or empirical data in some areas
  • ✗ Could benefit from more diverse global examples beyond Western contexts
Frequently asked questions
Is this book suitable for a first-year sociology course?
Yes, it is designed for undergraduates and assumes no prior sociological background, making it ideal for introductory courses.
Does the book cover both national and global issues?
Yes, it explicitly addresses national and international social problems, highlighting their interconnectedness.
What theoretical perspectives are emphasized?
The book adopts a critical sociological perspective, focusing on power inequalities and social justice.
Are there helpful pedagogical features?
Yes, each chapter includes clear descriptions, key concepts, and theoretical tools to aid understanding.
Is this book up-to-date with current global issues?
While the publication date is not specified, the critical framework is timeless and applicable to contemporary problems.

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