Revised, updated and restructured to reflect the latest data and debates, the new edition of this classic textbook is an accessible account of the major social divisions that structure social life. Drawing from extensive theoretical work and recent empirical analysis, it offers the most comprehensive sociological account of social inequalities, diversity and divisions currently available, written by leading experts in their fields. With individual chapters that can be read as freestanding contributions and learning aids including key points, discussion questions and selected further readings at each chapter, this outstanding volume presents an invaluable introduction and sourcebook for social science students.

"Written by a highly distinguished set of sociologists, this is a standout text with its extensive coverage of so many dimensions of social divisions in one volume." Lavinia Mitton, University of Kent
“A valuable resource that gets to grips with the causes and effects of the many inequalities that damage the lives of so many people.” Chris Yuill, Robert Gordon University
“A welcome new edition. The chapters are bang up to date. An invaluable text for new cohorts of students in sociology and the social sciences.” Fiona Devine, The University of Manchester

Geoff Payne is a Research Associate in the School of Geography, Politics and Sociology at Newcastle University. A former President of the British Sociological Association, he has written and worked on social mobility, social inequalities, and social research methodology. Eric Harrison is a Senior Lecturer in Sociology in the School of Arts and Social Sciences at City, University of London, and Deputy Director of the European Social Survey. He has research interests in social stratification, social inequality, wellbeing and survey methodology.