Book excerpt: This title is directed primarily towards health care professionals outside of the United States. 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. . 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