Sociology A Complete Course

This essential course-in-a-book gives you everything you need to understand the numerous social forces that shape our lives – from culture and community to power and inequality.

From the fundamentals of socialization and class to gender, race, institutions, and globalization, discover a different branch of sociology across nine practical and accessible modules – written by a team of subject experts. Explore the foundational theories of the greatest thinkers in the field – from Émile Durkheim and Max Weber to bell hooks and Pierre Bourdieu – and learn how algorithms, AI, and surveillance capitalism are reshaping our understanding of the subject today.

Perfect for complete beginners, Sociology: A Complete Course untangles complex theories using clear, jargon-free explanations paired with bold infographics, biographies of influential philosophers, and summary “maps” of the key ideas in every module, and how they relate to each other. The book’s innovative, graphic approach simplifies even the most challenging ideas within the field, making them easier than ever to understand.

Whether you are studying sociology, broadening your knowledge, or simply trying to make sense of the world around you, Sociology: A Complete Course will help you see the hidden patterns behind everyday life and give you a sharper and more informed perspective on culture and society.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs