12 Best Books on Sociology

We have compiled a list of the Best Reference Books on Sociology, which are used by students of top universities, and colleges. This will help you choose the right book depending on if you are a beginner or an expert. Here is the complete list of Sociology Books with their authors, publishers, and an unbiased review of them as well as links to the Amazon website to directly purchase them. If permissible, you can also download the free PDF books on Sociology below.

1. Sociology

 
1."Essential Sociology - For Civil Services Main Examination" by Seema and Nitin Sangwan
“Essential Sociology – For Civil Services Main Examination” Book Review: This book is intended for those who are aspiring to take the Civil Services Examination, but it can also be beneficial for those who are preparing for the NET/JRF. It covers the syllabus of Sociology optional as specified by UPSC and is divided into two parts: Part I and Part II. Part I includes topics mentioned in Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Main syllabus for Sociology optional, such as the evolution of Sociology as a discipline, Sociological thinkers, kinship, and social movements. Part II focuses on topics mentioned in Paper II of the syllabus, including perspectives in Indian Sociology, Colonial impact, Indian social structure, tribal issues, among others. Each chapter includes a comprehensive question bank that adheres to the latest pattern of the Civil Services Examination.

Buy-this-Book (India)
 
2."Sociology: Principles of Sociology with an Introduction to Social Thoughts" by Rao C N Shankar
“Sociology: Principles of Sociology with an Introduction to Social Thoughts” Book Review: This textbook offers an introduction to the fundamental concepts and various aspects of Sociology. It covers the origins of Sociology as a discipline and explores relevant topics such as inequality, institutions, control, change, disorganization, and societal problems. Additionally, it discusses applied sociology and sociological thought to provide a complete overview of the subject. The book is tailored for undergraduate students studying Sociology and Law. It also serves as a useful reference for postgraduate students and individuals preparing for various competitive examinations.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
3."Sociology: Themes and Perspectives (College and University Level T)" by Haralambos M and Heald R M
“Sociology: Themes and Perspectives (College and University Level T)” Book Review: The major theoretical perspectives within sociology are covered in this book, along with the substantive areas related to them. Every chapter includes a section on the ideological basis of the expressed views. The last chapter examines sociological theory and methodology. While the book emphasizes theory, it also provides ample empirical studies and evidence for the reader to form their own judgments. This book is a methodical introduction to sociology, appropriate for undergraduate education.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
4."Sociology" by Anthony Giddens
“Sociology” Book Review: This revised and updated book serves as a guide to comprehending the world we create and the lifestyles we adopt. It covers the latest developments and concepts in the field, providing readers with an authoritative and captivating introduction to sociology. The book also delivers a commanding overview of recent global developments and novel ideas in sociology, while providing full coverage of classic debates. Even the most intricate concepts are explained in an engaging manner. The inclusion of pictures gives readers an understanding of how sociology operates in the real world. This book is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to expand their knowledge of sociology.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
5."Sociology of Indian Society" by Rao C N Shankar
“Sociology of Indian Society” Book Review: This textbook provides an overview of the fundamental concepts and diverse aspects of Sociology. It includes the origins of Sociology as a discipline and explores topics such as inequality, institutions, control, change, disorganization, and societal issues. In addition, it covers applied sociology and sociological thought to offer a complete understanding of the subject. This textbook is intended for undergraduate students studying Sociology and Law, but it is also a valuable resource for postgraduate students and individuals preparing for various competitive examinations.

advertisement
advertisement
Buy-this-Book (India)
 
6."Dictionary of Sociology" by RPH Editorial Board
“Dictionary of Sociology” Book Review: This book features over 2,500 entries encompassing the terminology, methods, concepts, and theorists in sociology, as well as related fields like psychology, economics, anthropology, philosophy, and political science. It covers all aspects of sociology, from abolitionism to zeitgeist, with in-depth entries on key topics such as the sociology of migration, politics, and religion. Additionally, it includes terms from a diverse range of related fields. The book’s new entries focus on global and multicultural issues, such as climate change, social media, terrorism, and intersectionality. The book is an invaluable reference source for advanced students and teachers, as well as a useful introduction for beginners.

Buy-this-Book (India)
 
7."Sociology" by Paul Horton
“Sociology” Book Review: This revised and updated book serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding our world and the lives we lead. It offers an engaging and authoritative introduction to sociology, featuring the latest concepts and developments in the field. The book provides a commanding overview of recent global developments and new ideas in sociology, while also providing full coverage of classic debates. Even the most complex ideas are explained in an accessible and engaging manner. The inclusion of pictures helps readers to visualize how sociology works in the real world. This book is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in learning new concepts in sociology.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)


2. Sociology of Economic Development

 
1."Sociology of Economic Development" by Prof Birendra Nath Borthakur
Buy-this-Book (India)
 
2."Sociology of Development" by Sheobahal Singh
“Sociology of Development” Book Review: This book delves into the interplay between cultural-structural and economic development in India, offering a comprehensive exploration of the interface between society and economy. Along with examining the concepts and paradigms of development, the book addresses important issues in India, including the theories of development and underdevelopment, the paths and agencies of development, and the relationship between structure, culture, and development. The book also covers topics such as urbanization and development, technology and development, economic reforms in India, globalization, entrepreneurship, and modernization in detail. It is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking a detailed understanding of the sociology of development.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
3."Inequality in Economics and Sociology: New Perspectives (Routledge Studies in Development Economics)" by Gilberto Antonelli and Boike Rehbein
“Inequality in Economics and Sociology: New Perspectives (Routledge Studies in Development Economics)” Book Review: This book provides an overview of the essential subjects in the field of inequality research. It includes chapters on the theoretical traditions in economics and sociology, the structures of global and national inequality in the modern world, and the primary dimensions of inequality, such as gender, race, caste, migration, education, and poverty. The book also covers research methodology in detail, aiming to establish a connection between disciplines and approaches. It is a valuable resource for students and researchers who are interested in gaining knowledge on the current state of research, ongoing debates, and relevant literature in this crucial area.

advertisement
Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
4."The Economic Development of the Middle East (International Library of Sociology)" by Alfred Bonne
“The Economic Development of the Middle East (International Library of Sociology)” Book Review: This book investigates the economic development of the Middle East following the Arab Spring. It addresses the pressing and timely economic issues in the region. The book assesses the economic prospects for the Gulf and charts the growth of economic power in the area. It also examines the role of banks and capital markets in the region’s development, as well as the progress made in oil and gas production. In addition, the book analyzes the impact of demographic changes, including the significant decline in birth rates and its implications for future employment. This book is a valuable resource for undergraduate and postgraduate students of sociology.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
5."Economic and Social Development of Bangladesh: Miracle and Challenges" by Yasuyuki Sawada and Minhaj Mahmud
“Economic and Social Development of Bangladesh: Miracle and Challenges” Book Review: This book provides an in-depth analysis of Bangladesh’s economic and social progress, which is often referred to as a “miracle” due to the country’s remarkable achievements despite unfavorable conditions. It addresses the challenges that have hindered the country’s development, including weak governance, political instability, inequality, and risks associated with rapid urbanization and exposure to severe natural disasters. The book examines the factors that contributed to Bangladesh’s successful economic development and also considers potential future challenges. In addition, the book aims to provide policy recommendations that can be implemented by other developing countries. This book will be of interest to scholars and students of sociology, economics, and international development.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
We have put a lot of effort into researching the best books on Sociology and came out with a recommended list and their reviews. If any more book needs to be added to this list, please email us. We are working on free pdf downloads for books on Sociology and will publish the download link here. Fill out this Sociology books pdf download" request form for download notification.

advertisement

advertisement
advertisement
Subscribe to our Newsletters (Subject-wise). Participate in the Sanfoundry Certification contest to get free Certificate of Merit. Join our social networks below and stay updated with latest contests, videos, internships and jobs!

Youtube | Telegram | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest
Manish Bhojasia - Founder & CTO at Sanfoundry
Manish Bhojasia, a technology veteran with 20+ years @ Cisco & Wipro, is Founder and CTO at Sanfoundry. He lives in Bangalore, and focuses on development of Linux Kernel, SAN Technologies, Advanced C, Data Structures & Alogrithms. Stay connected with him at LinkedIn.

Subscribe to his free Masterclasses at Youtube & discussions at Telegram SanfoundryClasses.