The writing of this book mainly grew out of the significant changes that have happened in the field of sociology around the world in the last few decades. What distinguishes it from other books is that it provides arguments and comments, wherever necessary, reflecting new developments in the subject. On several important topics, the author collates the relevant views of other scholars and then offers his own point of view. Besides authenticity, coherence and reliability, one may thus find in this book a rare depth of knowledge and a combination of theoretic frameworks and empirical realties. As such, not only students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, but also those appearing in various competitive examinations would find it useful.