Includes bibliographical references (pages [277]-330) and index.

What is social inequality? -- Social divisions and inequality : social class -- Social divisions and inequality : gender -- Social divisions and inequality : ethnicity -- Social divisions and inequality : youth and age -- Social divisions and inequality : health and disability -- Globalisation and the global dimensions of inequality -- The global social policy arena and inequality -- Social policy and its relationship to inequality : facilitator or potential solution? -- Solutions to inequality : how do we create a more equal global society?

Now in an updated second edition, this textbook continues to be an essential guide to understanding social inequality and stratification, helping readers to understand what inequality is, how it is defined, explored and measured, and what the key social divisions are at both global and national level. The new edition includes updated coverage of sexuality and transgender issues, enhanced discussion of migration and asylum seeking, and further coverage of a global context for social inequalities, policy, and justice.