This unique Handbook is the product of a series of state of the art reviews of sociology conducted by the members of the International Sociological Association research committees. Drawing on dedicated knowledge and expertise, the book constitutes an unrivalled guide to the central theoretical and methodological perspectives in the discipline as a whole. The book is organized into six parts: conceptual perspectives; social and cultural differentiation; changing institutions and collective action; demography, cities and housing; art and leisure; and social problems. Each chapter includes a comprehensive review of the literature, covering the full range of work from contrasting traditions of thought and approaches.