Death and Dying Sociological Perspectives

Death and Dying is an important core text for students and professionals interested in developing a holistic understanding of death and dying.

Chapters are replete with case studies, activities, key point boxes, and other features that enable readers to develop a sociologically informed understanding of the broad range of complex issues that underpin death and dying. Written by two established and highly respected experts in the field, it offers a thoroughgoing account of a wide range of social aspects of death and dying, filling gaps left by the traditionally narrow focus of the existing literature. By drawing the suggested sociological perspectives and highlighting the role of social policy, the authors put forward a fresh perspective of the field of thanatology.

This book is a major contribution in progressing knowledge and understanding of dying and death for students and professionals in counseling, health and human services.

1. Sociological Understandings of Death and Dying 2. Key Sociological Concepts 3. The Significance of Social Processes 4. The Role of Culture and Ethnicity 5. Social Policy 6. Religion and Spirituality 7. The Family Context 8. The Role of Community 9. Death and Education 10. Death and Dying in the Workplace 11. The Medicalization of Death 12. Sociological Perspectives on Disposal and Ritual 13. The Role of Humor, Music and the Arts 14. Recent and Emerging Trends Conclusion Appendix: Guide for Instructors References

Gerry R. Cox is professor emeritus of sociology and archaeology at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, and former director of the Center for Death Education & Bioethics, USA.

Neil Thompson is an independent writer, educator, and adviser based in Wales.