This is a textbook suitable for courses in A-level sociology in colleges and universities. Concentrating their attention upon the main institutions of British society, the authors develop a comprehensive account of the key areas of modern sociology.Experienced as teachers of sociology, the authors also have a systematic and direct knowledge of research in the areas which they discuss. Each chapter seeks to incorporate the most recent developments in the specific area with which it is concerned, while concentrating upon making these accessible to those who have no previous knowledge of sociology.