SOCIOLOGY is truly a classic introductory text which introduces students to the methods and theories of sociology using Rodney Stark's hallmark "Over the Shoulder of a professional sociologist" approach, presenting sociology on a personal level. Stark describes what sociologists do and how they do it, focusing first on the questions they pose and how they search for and formulate their answers, and then moving on to study their answers and conclusions. In this way, he effectively explores themes, raising issues in a straightforward manner with historical accuracy and solid research. The text employs a unique feature titled "A Closer View," which illustrates seminal research studies to introduce students to the sociological imagination and the world around them.