[This text] bridges the gap between social theory and ... sociology curriculum. [It is] designed for undergraduate researching that shows today's students how classical and contemporary social theories can be used to shed new light on such topics as the Internet, the world of work, fast food restaurants, shopping malls, alcohol use, body building, new religious movements, and more. [The text] help[s] students appreciate the relevance and the significance of social theory while connecting research, theories, and issues in an accessible way.-Back cover.