Nursing practice needs to be informed by an understanding of people and the societies in which they live. This introductory text has been designed specifically to discuss those aspects of sociology which are most relevant to nursing and the health care context in which it takes place. Divided into three sections linking to key issues of relevance to nursing, it provides an accessible introduction to major sociological themes and ideas: Part 1 Sociology, nursing and everyday life. Part 2 The Healthcare System. Part 3 The Experience of Illness. All students taking nursing and health sciences courses, and social sciences modules, will find this book a readable and relevant introduction to sociology and health care. . A user-friendly introduction to a subject which students often find strange and new . Relates sociology to health and nursing to make the subject relevant to clinical practice . Key concepts and chapter summaries aid learning and revision . Case studies help relate theory to practice . Reference lists in each chapter provide the evidence base. . Biographical notes on eminent sociologists help bring the subject to life . Annotated Further Reading enables more in-depth study