Risk, Vulnerability and Everyday Life

by Iain Wilkinson

Overview

It is now sociological common sense to declare that, in everyday life, large numbers of people approach matters of work, family life, trust and friendship with 'risk' constantly in mind. This book, provides an introductory overview and critical assessment of this phenomenon. Iain Wilkinson outlines contrasting sociological theories of risk, and summarizes some of the principle discoveries of empirical research conducted into the ways people perceive, experience and respond to a world of danger. He also examines some of the moral concerns and political interests that feature in this area of study.

Designed to equip readers not only with the sociological means to debate the human consequences of our contemporary culture of risk, but also, with the critical resources to evaluate the significance this holds for current sociology, this book provides a perfectly pitched undergraduate introduction to the topic.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781134197996
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	09/10/2009
Series:	The New Sociology
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	136
File size:	525 KB

About the Author

Iain Wilkinson is a Senior Lecturer in Sociology at the University of Kent, UK. His publications include Anxiety in a Risk Society (2001) and Suffering: A Sociological Introduction (2004).

Table of Contents

1. Sociology in a World of Risk 2. The History of Risk 3. Risk and Social Theory 4. Risk in Social Context 5. The Danger of Risk 6. Our Futures at Risk

Editorial Reviews

'The modern world is a risky world, whether crossing the street or taking a bath, and people forget the risks in their world at their peril. They should recognize that risk surrounds them and learn how to deal with it. Wilkinson issues a call for both contemplation and action, and sociologists should take note of both. Summing Up: Recommended.' – Choice, June 2010

From the Publisher