Social Psychology

This textbook is the only major introduction to social psychology that provides a conceptually and thematically integrated approach to the science of social behavior. Unlike the majority of textbooks that portray social psychology as a list of interesting -- but seemingly unrelated -- phenomena, Smith, Mackie and Claypool show how the major topics and themes in the discipline are, in reality, deeply interconnected. As such, it provides a uniquely rich, meaningful, and logical appreciation of human social behavior that students can relate to the world around them and apply to their own lives.

In addition to the unifying themes and principles that run throughout the book, there is also recognition that social processes are intertwined with cognitive processes which creates much of the tension and dynamic in real-world settings.

Finally, there is the appplication of the science of social psychology and to real-life: this not only includes the major societal institutions, such as law and business, but also to issues as diverse as interpersonal relationships, media and marketing, social support, the environment, nutrition, and international relations.

This fourth edition has been thoroughly updated and includes much richer pedagogy than its predecessors, both within the book and online.