Routledge Basics 2012

Knowledge begins with the Basics

The Basics

Knowledge Begins with the Basics.


The Basics series provides compelling, concise and quality introductions to an array of subjects from acting to evolution and finance to world history.
 

  1. Acting: The Basics

    By Bella Merlin

    Series: The Basics

    Acting: The Basics is a practical and theoretical guide to the world of the professional actor, skilfully combining ideas from a range of practitioners and linking the academy to the industry. It covers key areas such as: the development of modern drama and acting processes over the years the...

    Published March 25th 2010 by Routledge

  2. American Philosophy: The Basics

    By Nancy A Stanlick

    Series: The Basics

    American Philosophy: The Basics introduces the history of American thought from early Calvinists to the New England Transcendentalists and from contract theory to contemporary African American philosophy. The key question it asks is: what it is that makes American Philosophy unique? This lively and...

    To Be Published November 26th 2012 by Routledge

  3. Anthropology: The Basics

    By Peter Metcalf

    Series: The Basics

    The ultimate guide for the student encountering anthropology for the first time, Anthropology: The Basics explains and explores key anthropological concepts including: what is anthropology? how can we distinguish cultural differences from physical ones? what is culture, anyway? how do...

    Published September 7th 2005 by Routledge

  4. Archaeology: The Basics

    2nd Edition

    By Clive Gamble

    Series: The Basics

    This second edition from our successful Basics series presents another chance to delve into this increasingly popular subject. Fully updated, Archaeology: The Basics has been revised to reflect growth in areas such as material culture, human evolution and the political use of the past. Lively...

    Published July 22nd 2007 by Routledge

  5. Art History: The Basics

    By Grant Pooke, Diana Newall

    Series: The Basics

    Art History: The Basics is a concise and accessible introduction for the general reader and the undergraduate approaching the history of art for the first time at college or university. It will give you answers to questions like: What is art and art history? What are the main methodologies...

    Published November 20th 2007 by Routledge

  6. Artificial Intelligence: The Basics

    By Kevin Warwick

    Series: The Basics

    'if AI is outside your field, or you know something of the subject and would like to know more then Artificial Intelligence: The Basics is a brilliant primer.' - Nick Smith, Engineering and Technology Magazine November 2011 Artificial Intelligence: The Basics is a concise and cutting-edge...

    Published August 17th 2011 by Routledge

  7. Buddhism: The Basics

    By Cathy Cantwell

    Series: The Basics

    Buddhism: The Basics provides a thorough and accessible introduction to a fascinating religion. Examining the historical development of Buddhism and its presence today, this guide covers: principal traditions practices and beliefs ethical guidelines and philosophy religious texts...

    Published August 26th 2009 by Routledge

  8. Contemporary Literature: The Basics

    By Suman Gupta

    Series: The Basics

    ‘Contemporary Literature’ is among the most popular areas of literary study but it can be a difficult one to define. This book equips readers with the necessary tools to take an analytical and systematic approach to contemporary texts. The author provides answers to some of the critical questions...

    Published October 25th 2011 by Routledge

  9. Criminal Law: The Basics

    By Jonathan Herring

    Series: The Basics

    Criminal Law: The Basics is an insightful introduction to the legal aspects of criminal acts, ranging from battery to burglary and harassment to homicide. Starting with an in-depth exploration of the very concept of crime, this book considers such questions as: how should we decide what is...

    Published September 27th 2009 by Routledge

  10. Criminology: The Basics

    2nd Edition

    By Sandra Walklate

    Series: The Basics

    As crime continues to be a high profile issue troubling politicians, the public and the media alike, the study of criminology has boomed. Providing an international and comparative introduction to the discipline, Criminology: The Basics is an accessible guide to the theoretical and practical...

    Published May 23rd 2011 by Routledge

  11. Dance Studies: The Basics

    By Jo Butterworth

    Series: The Basics

    Dance Studies: The Basics is a concise introduction to the study of dance ranging from the practical aspects such as technique and choreography to more theoretical considerations such as aesthetic appreciation and the place of dance in different cultures. This book answers questions such as:...

    Published November 20th 2011 by Routledge

  12. Eastern Philosophy: The Basics

    By Victoria S. Harrison

    Series: The Basics

    Eastern Philosophy: The Basics is an essential introduction to major Indian and Chinese philosophies, both past and present. Exploring familiar metaphysical and ethical questions from the perspectives of different Eastern philosophies, including Confucianism, Daoism, and strands of Buddhism and...

    To Be Published August 6th 2012 by Routledge

  13. Economics: The Basics

    2nd Edition

    By Tony Cleaver

    Series: The Basics

    Now in its second edition, Economics: The Basics provides an engaging and topical introduction to the key issues in contemporary economics. Fully updated to take into account the economic recession, changing patterns in world trade, housing and currency markets, this book covers fundamental issues,...

    Published November 8th 2010 by Routledge

  14. Education: The Basics

    By Kay Wood

    Series: The Basics

    Everyone knows that education is important, we are confronted daily by discussion of it in the media and by politicians, but how much do we really know about education? Education: The Basics is a lively and engaging introduction to education as an academic subject, taking into account both theory...

    Published June 16th 2011 by Routledge

  15. European Union: The Basics

    2nd Edition

    By Alex Warleigh-Lack

    Series: The Basics

    Fully updated to include the new Treaty of Lisbon, this is the best short and accessible introduction to the politics of the European Union, written by one of the world's most well-known authorities in the area. Ideal starting reading for students and the general reader, it explains in clear...

    Published September 22nd 2008 by Routledge

  16. Evolution: The Basics

    By Sherrie Lyons

    Series: The Basics

    Evolution: The Basics is an engaging introduction to the history, development and science of the theory of evolution. Beginning pre-Darwin and concluding with the latest research and controversies, readers are introduced to the origins of the idea of evolution, the ways in which it has developed...

    Published May 31st 2011 by Routledge

  17. Film Studies: The Basics

    By Amy Villarejo

    Series: The Basics

    This engaging and accessible introduction explores the intricacies of the film world to show how anyone can gain a broader understanding and a more pleasurable experience of film. Addressing general questions about why and how to study film, topics discussed include: the movie industry, from...

    Published September 27th 2006 by Routledge

  18. Finance: The Basics

    2nd Edition

    By Erik Banks

    Series: The Basics

    Finance: The Basics is a clear and practical introduction to the world of finance, allowing the reader to grasp relevant financial concepts and apply them to daily activities and studies. This fully revised and updated edition captures the most important aspects of a changing financial landscape,...

    Published August 24th 2010 by Routledge

  19. Free Will: The Basics

    By Meghan Griffith

    Series: The Basics

    The question of whether humans are free to make their own decisions has long been debated and it continues to be a controversial topic today. In Free Will: The Basics readers are provided with a clear and accessible introduction to this central but challenging philosophical problem. The questions...

    To Be Published November 30th 2012 by Routledge

  20. Human Genetics: The Basics

    By Ricki Lewis

    Series: The Basics

    Human genetics has blossomed from an obscure branch of biological science and occasional explanation for exceedingly rare disorders to a field all of its own that affects everyone. Human Genetics: The Basics introduces the key questions and issues in this emerging field, including: The common...

    Published September 30th 2010 by Routledge

  21. Human Geography: The Basics

    By Andrew Jones

    Series: The Basics

    Human Geography: The Basics is a concise introduction to the study of the role that humankind plays in shaping the world around us. Whether it’s environmental concerns, the cities we live in or the globalization of the economy, these are issues which affect us all. This book introduces these topics...

    Published April 17th 2012 by Routledge

  22. International Relations: The Basics

    By Peter Sutch, Juanita Elias

    Series: The Basics

    International Relations is a concise and accessible introduction for students new to international relations and for the general reader. It offers the most up-to-date guide to the major issues and areas of debate and: explains key issues including humanitarian intervention and economic justice...

    Published May 23rd 2007 by Routledge

  23. Islam: The Basics

    2nd Edition

    By Colin Turner

    Series: The Basics

    Now in its second edition, Islam: The Basics provides an introduction to the Islamic faith, examining the doctrines of the religion, the practises of Muslims and the history and significance of Islam in modern contexts. Key topics covered include: the Qur'an and its teachings the life of...

    Published April 20th 2011 by Routledge

  24. Journalism Studies: The Basics

    By Martin Conboy

    Series: The Basics

    Journalism Studies: The Basics provides an introductory overview of the emerging field of Journalism Studies, discussing key issues and contemporary debates. Drawing on Conboy’s extensive experience in the field, the changing nature of journalism and its future directions are addressed, through...

    To Be Published June 21st 2012 by Routledge

  25. Judaism: The Basics

    By Jacob Neusner

    Series: The Basics

    The oldest of the world’s major faiths, Judaism as practiced today represents a tradition that goes back nearly 6,000 years. Accessible and wide-ranging, Judaism: The Basics is a must-have resource covering the stories, beliefs and expressions of that tradition. Key topics covered include: the...

    Published July 27th 2006 by Routledge

  26. Language: The Basics

    2nd Edition

    By R.L. Trask

    Series: The Basics

    What makes human language unique?Do women speak differently from men?Just what is the meaning of "meaning"?Language: The Basics provides a concise introduction to the study of language. Written in an engaging and entertaining style, it encourages the reader to think about the way language works. It...

    Published March 17th 1999 by Routledge

  27. Law: The Basics

    By Gary Slapper, David Kelly

    Series: The Basics

    Law: The Basics is an engaging introduction to one of the most complex areas of modern life. The book introduces both the main components of the legal system – including judges, juries and law-makers - and key areas of law – contract, civil negligence, and criminal law – to provide the uninitiated...

    Published June 8th 2011 by Routledge

  28. Literary Theory: The Basics

    2nd Edition

    By Hans Bertens

    Series: The Basics

    With a new introduction and fully updated pointers to further reading, this second edition of Hans Bertens’ bestselling book is a must-have guide to the world of literary theory. Exploring a broad range of topics from Marxist and feminist criticism to post-modernism and new historicism...

    Published October 3rd 2007 by Routledge

  29. Logic: The Basics

    By Jc Beall

    Series: The Basics

    Logic: The Basics is a hands-on introduction to the philosophically alive field of logical inquiry. Covering both classical and non-classical theories, it presents some of the core notions of logic such as validity, basic connectives, identity, ‘free logic’ and more. This book: introduces some...

    Published March 18th 2010 by Routledge

  30. Management: The Basics

    By Morgen Witzel

    Series: The Basics

    Management: The Basics provides an easy, jargon-free introduction to the fundamental principles and practices of modern management. Using examples ranging from people management at Cadbury and the Enron crisis to the marketing of fried chicken in China, it explains key aspects of management,...

    Published May 26th 2004 by Routledge

  31. Marketing: The Basics

    2nd Edition

    By Karl Moore, Niketh Pareek

    Series: The Basics

    ‘…a punchy, stripped-down version of what marketing is all about.’ – The Times Higher Education Supplement If you have a product you’re looking to market, or you’re seeking to learn more about the potential of online marketing, Marketing: The Basics tells you everything you need to know...

    Published November 19th 2009 by Routledge

  32. Media Studies: The Basics

    By Julian McDougall

    Series: The Basics

    There have been seismic shifts in what constitutes (the) media in recent years with technological advances ushering in whole new categories of producers, consumers and modes of delivery. This has been reflected in the way media is studied with new theories, concepts and practices coming to the fore...

    Published May 21st 2012 by Routledge

  33. Philosophy: The Basics

    5th Edition

    By Nigel Warburton

    ‘Philosophy: The Basics deservedly remains the most recommended introduction to philosophy on the market. Warburton is patient, accurate and, above all, clear. There is no better short introduction to philosophy.’ - Stephen Law, author of The Philosophy Gym Philosophy: The Basics gently eases the...

    To Be Published October 31st 2012 by Routledge

  34. Physical Geography: The Basics

    By Joseph Holden

    Series: The Basics

    Physical Geography: The Basics is a concise and engaging introduction to the interactions, systems and processes that have shaped, and continue to shape, the physical world around us. This book introduces five key aspects of the study of physical geography: atmosphere, weather and climate systems...

    Published April 28th 2011 by Routledge

  35. Poetry: The Basics

    2nd Edition

    By Jeffrey Wainwright

    Series: The Basics

    Now in its second edition, Poetry: The Basics demystifies the traditions and forms of the world of poetry for all those who find it daunting or bewildering. Covering a wide range of poetic voices from Chaucer to children's rhymes, song lyrics and the words of contemporary poets, this book will help...

    Published February 17th 2011 by Routledge

  36. Politics: The Basics

    4th Edition

    By Stephen D. Tansey, Nigel Jackson

    Series: The Basics

    This highly successful introduction to the world of politics has been fully revised and updated to explore the systems, movements and key issues in modern politics. The new edition builds on the reputation for clarity and comprehensive coverage of the previous editions, and includes: A greater...

    Published March 30th 2008 by Routledge

  37. Race and Ethnicity: The Basics

    By Peter Kivisto, Paul R. Croll

    Series: The Basics

    Race and ethnicity have shaped the social, cultural and political character of much of the world, and remain an important influence on contemporary life in the 21st Century. Race and Ethnicity: The Basics is an accessible introduction to these potent forces. Topics covered include: The forms and...

    Published November 16th 2011 by Routledge

  38. Religion and Science: The Basics

    By Philip Clayton

    Series: The Basics

    Religion and science are arguably the two most powerful social forces in the world today. But where religion and science were once held to be compatible, most people now perceive them to be in conflict. This unique book provides the best available introduction to the burning debates in this...

    Published August 17th 2011 by Routledge

  39. Religion: The Basics

    2nd Edition

    By Malory Nye

    Series: The Basics

    From the local to the global level, religion is – more than ever – an important and hotly debated part of modern life in the twenty-first century. From silver rings to ringtones and from clubs to headscarves, we often find the cultural role and discussion of religion in unexpected ways....

    Published May 7th 2008 by Routledge

  40. Research Methods: The Basics

    By Nicholas Walliman

    Series: The Basics

    Research Methods: The Basics is an accessible, user-friendly introduction to the different aspects of research theory, methods and practice. Structured in two parts, the first covering the nature of knowledge and the reasons for research, and the second the specific methods used to carry out...

    Published November 14th 2010 by Routledge

  41. Roman Catholicism: The Basics

    By Michael Walsh

    Series: The Basics

    From the basic ideas and terms, to its structures and practices, this book offers a plain-speaking introduction to Roman Catholicism. It covers: Roman Catholic beliefs and traditions practices and devotional life – rituals, prayer, mass Church structures and authorities – from Vatican to...

    Published April 27th 2005 by Routledge

  42. Semiotics: The Basics

    2nd Edition

    Series: The Basics

    This updated second edition provides a clear and concise introduction to the key concepts of semiotics in accessible and jargon-free language. With a revised introduction and glossary, extended index and suggestions for further reading, this new edition provides an increased number of examples...

    Published January 8th 2007 by Routledge

  43. Shakespeare: The Basics

    3rd Edition

    By Sean McEvoy

    Series: The Basics

    Now in its third edition Shakespeare: The Basics is an insightful and informative introduction to the work of William Shakespeare. Exploring all aspects of Shakespeare’s plays including the language, cultural contexts, and modern interpretations, this text looks at how a range of plays from across...

    Published May 21st 2012 by Routledge

  44. Social Work: The Basics

    By Mark Doel

    Series: The Basics

    Social Work: The Basics is an insightful introduction to the often misrepresented world of social work. This accessible book presents a broad view of contemporary social work, exploring its roots and its possible future. It dispels myths surrounding social work, addresses media debates, and offers...

    To Be Published June 24th 2012 by Routledge

  45. Sociology: The Basics

    By Ken Plummer

    Series: The Basics

    A lively, accessible and comprehensive introduction to the diverse ways of thinking about social life, Sociology: The Basics examines: the scope, history and purpose of sociology ways of understanding 'the social' the state of the world we live in today suffering and social inequalities key tools...

    Published June 24th 2010 by Routledge

  46. Special Educational Needs: The Basics

    By Janice Wearmouth

    Series: The Basics

    Providing an engaging and complete overview Special Educational Needs: The Basics examines the fundamental principles of the subject from policy to practice. This book covers: concepts of special educational needs the historical development of special provision and key legislation identification...

    Published November 9th 2011 by Routledge

  47. Television Studies: The Basics

    By Toby Miller

    Series: The Basics

    Television Studies: The Basics is a lively introduction to the study of a powerful medium. It examines the major theories and debates surrounding production and reception over the years and considers both the role and future of television. Topics covered include: broadcasting history and...

    Published November 24th 2009 by Routledge

  48. Terrorism: The Basics

    By James Lutz, Brenda Lutz

    Series: The Basics

    Terrorism: The Basics is an ideal starting point for anyone interested in one of the most discussed, written about and analysed aspects of modern life. Common misconceptions are dispelled as the authors provide clear and jargon-free answers to the big questions: What does terrorism involve?...

    Published February 27th 2011 by Routledge

  49. The Bible: The Basics

    By John Barton

    Series: The Basics

    The Bible: The Basics is a compelling introduction to the Bible as both a sacred text, central to the faith of millions, and a classic work of Western literature, containing a tapestry of genres, voices, perspectives and images. This masterly guide skilfully addresses both aspects of the Bible’s...

    Published January 24th 2010 by Routledge

  50. The City: The Basics

    By Kevin Archer

    Series: The Basics

    The City: The Basics provides a brief yet compelling overview of the study of cities and city life. The book draws on a range of perspectives – economic, political, cultural, and environmental aspects are all considered – to provide a broad comparison of the evolution of cities in the rich Global...

    To Be Published October 18th 2012 by Routledge

  51. The Olympics: The Basics

    By Andy Miah, Beatriz Garcia

    Series: The Basics

    The Olympics: The Basics is an accessible, contemporary introduction to the Olympic movement and Games. Chapters explain how the Olympics transcend sports, engaging us with a range of contemporary philosophical, social, cultural and political matters, including: peace development and diplomacy...

    Published January 18th 2012 by Routledge

  52. The Qur'an: The Basics

    By Massimo Campanini

    Series: The Basics

    This highly topical introduction to the holy book of Islam includes essential reference resources such as a chronology of the revelation, weblinks and extensive guides to further reading. Exploring the Qur'an's reception through history, its key teachings and its place in contemporary thought and...

    Published February 19th 2007 by Routledge

  53. Theatre Studies: The Basics

    By Robert Leach

    Series: The Basics

    This is an essential read for anyone setting out to study the thrilling world of theatre for the first time. Introducing you to all the aspects of drama, theatre and performance you will be studying in your course, from the theoretical to the practical, Theatre Studies: The Basics will...

    Published May 28th 2008 by Routledge

  54. World History: The Basics

    By Peter N. Stearns

    Series: The Basics

    World History has rapidly grown to become one of the most popular and talked about approaches to the study of history. World History: The Basics introduces this fast-growing field and addresses key questions such as: What is world history? How do we study a subject with such a broad geographic...

    Published November 9th 2010 by Routledge