“There is no better book to help college students understand the sociological mindset. In the tradition of Peter Berger’s Invitation to Sociology, Johnson speaks directly to students in clear language, using strong examples to clarify key sociological concepts, such as culture, structure, socialization, and privilege. For students who have not perceived their own privileged status, this serves as a challenging but affirming first step toward sociological self-awareness.” —Terence J. McGinn, The University of Michigan

“The Forest and the Trees integrates the topic of social inequality (both oppression and privilege) seamlessly into the narrative in a way that no other book I’ve considered does. I have so much respect for Johnson’s clear and compelling writing style, as well as his ability to explain and elaborate on concepts in a way that is easy for my students to understand.” —Betsy Lucal, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Indiana University South Bend

“I love The Forest and the Trees. And, honestly, if there were not a new edition, I am not sure how I would teach my Introduction to Sociology course. My students often comment that it is the best course text they have ever read. I cannot sing the praises of The Forest and the Trees enough!.” —Marisol Clark-Ibáñez, Associate Professor of Sociology, California State University, San Marcos

“My most frequent margin notes in this book were ‘great’ and ‘cool,’ and I wrote them often. Not only does Johnson present the sociological perspective in a smoothly written, easily digestible form(;) he also makes surprising turns and gently leads the reader into some interesting implications of otherwise familiar arguments. . . . His examples shine. . . . Johnson’s impressive ability (is) to take the familiar and give it a twist, or to find intellectual surprises in the midst of conventional wisdom. . . .Repeatedly, Johnson explains tricky ideas simply. . . . He respects his readers, talking in terms they will understand while always pushing them intellectually to take one more step.” —Daniel F. Chambliss, Contemporary Sociology

“Johnson’s prolegomenon to the study of sociology, written for . . . sociology students at all levels, presents a ‘core view’ of sociology: individuals always participate in something larger than themselves—social systems; social life flows from this relationship between smaller and larger, between the forest and the trees. . . . Johnson’s discussion is masterful.” —Choice

“If you are passionate in your belief in the promise of sociology to challenge how people think about social life and how they participate in it, you will find The Forest and the Trees an inspiring resource for your students. . . . I highly recommend this book as a very useful teaching aid for introductory sociology in the Berger and Mills traditions.” —B. Gerry Coulter,Canadian Review of Sociology and Anthropology