Handbook of the Sociology of the Military (Handbooks of Sociology and Social Research) - Softcover

"This collection from 24 scholars from 13 different countries provides an informative interdisciplinary overview of the most significant trends and developments in military sociology. Both newcomers and experts will find this handbook useful, particularly its comprehensive reference section. Highly recommended. Most reference collections; upper-division undergraduates and above."
Choice, 41:1 (2003)
"If any proof were needed that military sociology is a vital and intellectually vibrant subfield of sociology, the evidence is in this excellent international and interdisciplinary book. They have produced a book that succeeds on multiple levels: as an important reference work, as a report of cutting-edge research, as contribution to theory and as a book that scholars and an informed lay audience will find fascinating reading."
(International Sociology, 19:2)
"They have produced a book that succeeds on multiple levels: as an important reference work, as a report of cutting-edge research, as a contribution to theory and as a book that scholars and an informed lay audience will find fascinating reading. This volume is an important contribution to the study of the military and its relation to society, and deserves a place in the personal and professional libraries of scholars and institutions who understand the importance of the questions addressed.  It would also serve as an excellent textbook for graduate or advanced undergraduate courses in civil-military relations."
(John Allen Williams; International Sociology, 19:2)

This accessible handbook is the first of its kind to examine the sociological approach to the study of the military. The contents are compiled from the work of researchers at universities around the world, as well as military officers devoted to the sector of study. Beginning with a review of studies prior to contemporary research, the book provides a comprehensive survey of the topic. The scope of coverage extends to civic-military relations, including issues surrounding democratic control of the armed forces; military culture; professional training; conditions and problems of minorities in the armed forces; an examination of structural change within the military over the years including new duties and functions following the Cold War.