The chapters in this book showcase current sociological research, as undertaken both by established and budding social scientists in South Africa and Africa. The book covers a variety of topical themes, the first of which concerns the link between society, power and the environment, and how competing interests, whether these be corporate, legal, socio-ecological or environmentalist, relate to each. Another theme includes contributions on development, democracy and service delivery. Workplace change, resistance and well-being within the agricultural, manufacturing, mining and the service sector constitute a further central focus. The remaining theme addresses the interplay of race, class, gender and power within the context of specific topics, such as HIV/AIDS, tertiary education and minority groups. The collection of work presented in this book reflects a critical stance towards reification of roles, highlights contradictions between principles and practices in society, and underscores the complexity of societal issues on a broad range of contemporary themes. As such, the chapters are notable for their empirical richness and methodological pluralism, which are of interest to an interdisciplinary audience, whether scholars, professionals or practitioners.
Editorial Reviews
Review
‘Society In Focus is a refreshingly different book that informs the reader about important current and enduring themes of social significance. The thematic analyses of the environment, development, work place change and gender/race relations follow innovative applications in thinking about the classic sociological processes of power and resistance and the challenges these pose. This book is highly recommended for anyone who wants an update about sociology in South Africa.’ –Cornie Groenewald, Professor Emeritus, Stellenbosch University
‘This compilation provides an overview of current concerns and contributions of sociologists in South Africa and Africa. The central focus on environmental issues demonstrates the greater importance of this field for sociologists. The expanded focus of political sociology to embrace issues of development and service delivery are aptly dealt with in this book within a broad context, as are issues within the post-Apartheid workplace and tensions around gender and race within this society. All in all, this book is a significant contribution that attests to the current healthy state of sociology in South Africa and offers an enlightening and encouraging insight into its expanded domains of research and scholarship.’ –Ken Jubber, Professor Emeritus, University of Cape Town
About the Author
Lindy Heinecken (PhD) is an Associate Professor at Stellenbosch University, Dept of Sociology. Her research focuses on armed forces and society where she has published widely on diversity issues, cultural intelligence, civil-military relations, military professionalism, military unionism and HIV/AIDS and security. Heidi Prozesky (PhD, Sociology) is a Lecturer at Stellenbosch University and a core team member of the Centre of Excellence for Invasion Biology. She has published on women in science and on environmental issues, and is a contributor to the South African edition of The Practice of Social Research.
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