'This book is a must have for students and lecturers alike. Students because it gives them model essays on frequently set topics, lecturers because it gives them thumbnail overviews and up to date bibliographies on topics they might not cover in their courses. It is written without repetition - which is quite a feat - and provides authoritative statements on the state of the art in medical sociology' - Kevin White Reader in Sociology, Australian National University 'The entries, written by a couple of dozen colleagues, are concise, intelligent, and full of both specific examples and theoretical trends in the field. Key Concepts will be a valuable companion to medical sociology texts and anthologies, and an important permanent reference work as well' - Phil Brown Professor of Sociology and Environmental Studies, Brown University 'It is intended to provide more depth than a dictionary or than is usually found in textbooks, and the authors achieve this objective admirably! it provides an excellent and readable introduction to the subject the subject for students whose course involves medical sociology, health researchers, or health professionals who want to understand more about the social context of their work' --British Journal of Occupational Therapy Written with the needs of today's student in mind, the SAGE Key Concepts series provides accessible, authoritative and reliable coverage of the essential issues in a range of disciplines. Written in each case, by experienced and respected experts in the subject area, the books are indispensable study aids and guides to comprehension. Cross-referenced throughout, the format encourages understanding without sacrificing the level of detail and critical evaluation essential to convey the complexity of the issues. Key Concepts in Medical Sociology: * provides a systematic and accessible introduction to medical sociology * begins each 1500 word entry with a definition of the concept, then examines its origins, development, strengths and weaknesses *offers further reading guidance for independent learning * draws on international literature and examples * is essential reading for undergraduates in medical sociology as well as students taking courses with a medical sociology component.