Kendall's SOCIOLOGY IN OUR TIMES: THE ESSENTIALS, 12th edition, introduces you to the study of sociology through captivating, real-life stories as well as timely topics such as the relationship between suicide, bullying and social media. The author humanizes sociology, showing you how it is at work in society and can be applied to everyday life and the pressing social issues we face. You'll learn how you can make a difference in your community -- and the world. You'll also examine issues making headlines, such as the war on gun control and policies to help prevent military suicides. Photos and videos complement the text's main themes of diversity, the application of sociology to everyday life, global comparisons, media and social change, particularly as it relates to social media and other forms of technology spurring new ways of interacting. Also available: MindTap.