... popular route to take by many contemporary social scientists apparently self-conscious about the status of sociology or philosophy in relation to the physical sciences. Bauman deals with the individual's relations within and towards institutions and systems, however organised, like state bureaucracies, or ad hoc, such as the 'imagined communities' that link us in a psychological and emotional way to other individuals with whom we identify. A reoccurring theme in Thinking Sociologically is the effect of consumerism and the clash between capitalist society and moral obligations, for example 'Going about the Business of life' (Chapter 11) and 'Gift and Exchange' (Chapter 5). Instead of trying to succinctly summarise the issues raised, Bauman simply holds a light up to the uncomfortable, often unpalatable truths that at times seem blaringly obvious. In 'Gift and Exchange', for example, the obligations felt by differing people depending on the intensity of their relationship is a central ...

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