"In today's world, both cultures and societies are changing more quickly than ever before. Cultures and Societies in a Changing World sheds light on the role culture plays in shaping our social world. A vital and personal aspect of individual identity, culture shapes a person's norms, values, beliefs, and practices. This edition introduces the sociology of culture and explores cultural phenomena, including stories, beliefs, media, ideas, art, religious practices, fashions, and rituals, from a global sociological perspective." "The author takes a global approach by considering cultural examples from various countries and time periods, be delving into the ways globalization processes are affecting cultures, and by offering an explanation of post-Cold War culture-related conflicts. Readers will develop a deeper appreciation of culture and society from this text, gleaning useful insights that will help them overcome cultural misunderstandings, conflicts, and ignorance and equip them to live their professional and personal lives as effective, wise citizens of the world."--Jacket.