Mark Erickson

It is impossible to view the news at present without hearing talk of crisis. This timely book looks at how three major crises – the economy, pandemic and climate – are related to the crisis of work, making it more precarious, intense and unequal. Providing an original and critical synthesis of recent trends in the field, expert scholars offer a programme for transcending the crisis of work. Offering a timely contribution to understanding the important issues facing the world, this book presents an important new way of thinking about work in contemporary societies.

It is impossible to view the news at present without hearing talk of crisis. This timely book looks at how three major crises – the economy, pandemic and climate – are related to the crisis of work, making it more precarious, intense and unequal. Providing an original and critical synthesis of recent trends in the field, expert scholars offer a programme for transcending the crisis of work. Offering a timely contribution to understanding the important issues facing the world, this book presents an important new way of thinking about work in contemporary societies.

Science occupies an ambiguous space in contemporary society. Scientific research is championed in relation to tackling environmental issues and diseases such as cancer and dementia, and science has made important contributions to today’s knowledge economies and knowledge societies. And yet science is considered by many to be remote, and even dangerous. It seems that as we have more science, we have less understanding of what science actually is. The new edition of this popular text redresses this knowledge gap and provides a novel framework for making sense of science, particularly in relation to contemporary social issues such as climate change. Using real-world examples, Mark Erickson explores what science is and how it is carried out, what the relationship between science and society is, how science is represented in contemporary culture, and how scientific institutions are structured. Throughout, the book brings together sociology, science and technology studies, cultural studies and philosophy to provide a far-reaching understanding of science and technology in the twenty-first century. Fully updated and expanded in its second edition, Science, Culture and Society will continue to be key reading on courses across the social sciences and humanities that engage with science in its social and cultural context.

Science occupies an ambiguous space in contemporary society. Scientific research is championed in relation to tackling environmental issues and diseases such as cancer and dementia, and science has made important contributions to today’s knowledge economies and knowledge societies. And yet science is considered by many to be remote, and even dangerous. It seems that as we have more science, we have less understanding of what science actually is. The new edition of this popular text redresses this knowledge gap and provides a novel framework for making sense of science, particularly in relation to contemporary social issues such as climate change. Using real-world examples, Mark Erickson explores what science is and how it is carried out, what the relationship between science and society is, how science is represented in contemporary culture, and how scientific institutions are structured. Throughout, the book brings together sociology, science and technology studies, cultural studies and philosophy to provide a far-reaching understanding of science and technology in the twenty-first century. Fully updated and expanded in its second edition, Science, Culture and Society will continue to be key reading on courses across the social sciences and humanities that engage with science in its social and cultural context.

Kingdoms Clash, and Empires Invade A young hunter is suddenly thrust into a vital role as the sole emissary to a neighboring kingdom, seeking aid in the struggle against a deadly foe. An evil empire is threatening to destroy his peaceful, forested homeland Completely illustrated with 163 photos of amazing LEGO creations built by the authors, Mark and Steven Erickson. Readers both young and young-at-heart will be enthralled with a sweeping tale of deadly struggle and heroic victory Part 1 of The Anselm Saga

Since the beginning of civilization, warfare has shaped the destiny of man. The art of battling has now reached a whole new level. Introducing... Warfare by Duct Tape Re-enact history, defend honor, vanquish the enemy and take dominion... or just plain have fun Bring Ancient History to LIFE The BARBARIAN BOOK includes complete instructions, patterns and full color photos to create: SwordCeltic SwordSpearBattle AxeThrowing AxeBlowgun & DartsBlowgun DaggerShieldBucklerBarbarian HelmetFrankish HelmetCostumesMoney & Pouch Also: Description of the GameIncludes strategy hints and provides an overview of the thrilling game of duct tapewarfare. Rules of the GameHow to battle with chivalry & honor. Explains ransom & diplomacy. Check out all the titles from Warfare by Duct Tape for more awesomeness "Our highly mathematical equation is... Duct Tape + Boys + Dad + Warfare by Duct Tape Books = LOTS of fun (And learning too, although Mom keeps that part a secret ) This book includes the necessary vocabulary, along with historical explanations, and it contains many photos and instructions to build every weapon and costume. Even more importantly, the book emphasizes chivalry and honor while helping children (and adults) understand battle strategies. " -Brandi, Half-a-Hundred Acre Wood blog "After a quick trip to the hardware store to get some PVC, PVC insulation, and of course duct tape, the boys and their Dad had a blast making their own swords. My husband said the book was nicely done and easy to follow. This was right up my husband's and boys' alley and they are already planning out what weapon they will make next. This is a unique and creative activity for all the warriors in your home, and these books would make a perfect project supplement during your ancient history studies too " -Sarah, My Joy-filled Life blog "One of the things I really wanted to see was just how easy the instructions were to follow... could my 11 and 12 year old sons do this by themselves? My husband used a saw to cut the PVC pipe, and other than that, I am happy to report that these were indeed made entirely by my kids Super, super easy And the best part? They had tons of fun making and playing with them I was extremely impressed with these toys and how much fun my boys had. Plus, the authors are a homeschooling family with young entrepreneurs How awesome is that?" -Jaime, Love Bakes Good Cakes blog "The directions for creating our swords were detailed and easy to follow. Pictures were included every step of the way to help ensure we stayed on track. Several notes were also included to explain why each step was important. We invited several friends over to build swords with us. It was fun to see how everyone decided to personalize their weapons with different duct tape designs.History has long been our family's favorite subject to study together and the Warfare by Duct Tape book has been a wonderful addition to our learning. These hands-on building projects have given us an opportunity to cut, form and tape our own weapons and helped us better understand the size and style of weapons we have seen in books and movies. The game descriptions have led us to discussions about topics like chivalry, battle strategy and the historical time periods in which these weapons would have been used.As much as we have enjoyed using these books, as a homeschooling parent I have to say that what I have appreciated the most about the book is the fact that they have been created by Mark and Steven, brothers and teenage homeschool entrepreneurs The information and attention to detail included in each book is very impressive." -Susan, Education Possible blog

Since the beginning of civilization, warfare has shaped the destiny of man. The art of battling has now reached a whole new level. Introducing...Warfare by Duct Tape Re-enact history, defend honor, vanquish the enemy and take dominion... or just plain have fun THE GRECO-ROMAN BOOK includes completeinstructions, patterns & full color photos to create: SwordShort SwordSpearDaggerJavelinsShieldGreek HelmetRoman HelmetCostumesMoney & Pouch Description of the GameIncludes strategy hints and provides an overview of the thrilling game of duct tape warfare. Rules of the GameHow to battle with chivalry & honor. Explains ransom & diplomacy. Instructions & Patterns: All you need to build weapons, shields and helmets from basic materials found at your local hardware store, PVC pipe, foam, and of course... duct tape. Check out all the titles from Warfare by Duct Tape for more awesomeness Praise for Warfare by Duct Tape: "Our highly mathematical equation is... Duct Tape + Boys + Dad + Warfare by Duct Tape Books = LOTS of fun (And learning too, although Mom keeps that part a secret ) This book includes the necessary vocabulary, along with historical explanations, and it contains many photos and instructions to build every weapon and costume. Even more importantly, the book emphasizes chivalry and honor while helping children (and adults) understand battle strategies. " -Brandi, Half-a-Hundred Acre Wood blog "After a quick trip to the hardware store to get some PVC, PVC insulation, and of course duct tape, the boys and their Dad had a blast making their own swords. My husband said the book was nicely done and easy to follow. This was right up my husband's and boys' alley and they are already planning out what weapon they will make next. This is a unique and creative activity for all the warriors in your home, and these books would make a perfect project supplement during your ancient history studies too " -Sarah, My Joy-filled Life blog "One of the things I really wanted to see was just how easy the instructions were to follow... could my 11 and 12 year old sons do this by themselves? My husband used a saw to cut the PVC pipe, and other than that, I am happy to report that these were indeed made entirely by my kids Super, super easy And the best part? They had tons of fun making and playing with them I was extremely impressed with these toys and how much fun my boys had. Plus, the authors are a homeschooling family with young entrepreneurs How awesome is that?" -Jaime, Love Bakes Good Cakes blog "The directions for creating our swords were detailed and easy to follow. Pictures were included every step of the way to help ensure we stayed on track. Several notes were also included to explain why each step was important. We invited several friends over to build swords with us. It was fun to see how everyone decided to personalize their weapons with different duct tape designs.History has long been our family's favorite subject to study together and the Warfare by Duct Tape book has been a wonderful addition to our learning. These hands-on building projects have given us an opportunity to cut, form and tape our own weapons and helped us better understand the size and style of weapons we have seen in books and movies. The game descriptions have led us to discussions about topics like chivalry, battle strategy and the historical time periods in which these weapons would have been used.As much as we have enjoyed using these books, as a homeschooling parent I have to say that what I have appreciated the most about the book is the fact that they have been created by Mark and Steven, brothers and teenage homeschool entrepreneurs The information and attention to detail included in each book is very impressive." -Susan, Education Possible blog

Since the beginning of civilization, warfare has shaped the destiny of man. The art of battling has now reached a whole new level. Introducing... Warfare by Duct Tape Re-enact history, defend honor, vanquish the enemy and take dominion... or just plain have fun Bring Ancient History to LIFE The BATTLE BOOK includes: SwordSpearBattle AxeThrowing AxeShieldBarbarian HelmetGreek HelmetCostumesMoney & Pouch Also: Description of the GameIncludes strategy hints and provides an overview of the thrilling game of duct tape warfare. Rules of the GameHow to battle with chivalry & honor. Explains ransom & diplomacy. Instructions, Patterns & Full Color Photos: All you need to build weapons, shields and helmets from basic materials found at your local hardware store, PVC pipe, foam, and of course... duct tape. Check out all the Warfare by Duct Tape books for more awesomeness Reviews: "Our highly mathematical equation is... Duct Tape + Boys + Dad + Warfare by Duct Tape Books = LOTS of fun (And learning too, although Mom keeps that part a secret ) This book includes the necessary vocabulary, along with historical explanations, and it contains many photos and instructions to build every weapon and costume. Even more importantly, the book emphasizes chivalry and honor while helping children (and adults) understand battle strategies. " -Brandi, Half-a-Hundred Acre Wood blog "After a quick trip to the hardware store to get some PVC, PVC insulation, and of course duct tape, the boys and their Dad had a blast making their own swords. My husband said the book was nicely done and easy to follow. This was right up my husband's and boys' alley and they are already planning out what weapon they will make next. This is a unique and creative activity for all the warriors in your home, and these books would make a perfect project supplement during your ancient history studies too " -Sarah, My Joy-filled Life blog "One of the things I really wanted to see was just how easy the instructions were to follow... could my 11 and 12 year old sons do this by themselves? My husband used a saw to cut the PVC pipe, and other than that, I am happy to report that these were indeed made entirely by my kids Super, super easy And the best part? They had tons of fun making and playing with them I was extremely impressed with these toys and how much fun my boys had. Plus, the authors are a homeschooling family with young entrepreneurs How awesome is that?" -Jaime, Love Bakes Good Cakes blog "The directions for creating our swords were detailed and easy to follow. Pictures were included every step of the way to help ensure we stayed on track. Several notes were also included to explain why each step was important. We invited several friends over to build swords with us. It was fun to see how everyone decided to personalize their weapons with different duct tape designs.History has long been our family's favorite subject to study together and the Warfare by Duct Tape book has been a wonderful addition to our learning. These hands-on building projects have given us an opportunity to cut, form and tape our own weapons and helped us better understand the size and style of weapons we have seen in books and movies. The game descriptions have led us to discussions about topics like chivalry, battle strategy and the historical time periods in which these weapons would have been used.As much as we have enjoyed using these books, as a homeschooling parent I have to say that what I have appreciated the most about the book is the fact that they have been created by Mark and Steven, brothers and teenage homeschool entrepreneurs The information and attention to detail included in each book is very impressive." -Susan, Education Possible blog

Since the beginning of civilization, warfare has shaped the destiny of man. The art of battling has now reached a whole new level. Introducing... Warfare by Duct Tape Re-enact history, defend honor, vanquish the enemy and take dominion... or just plain have fun Bring Ancient History to LIFE The ARMORED GLOVE BOOK contains complete instructions and full color photos to create this one of a kind armored glove This Armored Glove is a replica of what the Medieval Knights of old would have worn in battle. Create a fully workable glove from simple materials and, of course, duct tape Check out all the titles from Warfare by Duct Tape for more awesomeness "Our highly mathematical equation is... Duct Tape + Boys + Dad + Warfare by Duct Tape Books = LOTS of fun (And learning too, although Mom keeps that part a secret ) This book includes the necessary vocabulary, along with historical explanations, and it contains many photos and instructions to build every weapon and costume. Even more importantly, the book emphasizes chivalry and honor while helping children (and adults) understand battle strategies. " -Brandi, Half-a-Hundred Acre Wood blog "After a quick trip to the hardware store to get some PVC, PVC insulation, and of course duct tape, the boys and their Dad had a blast making their own swords. My husband said the book was nicely done and easy to follow. This was right up my husband's and boys' alley and they are already planning out what weapon they will make next. This is a unique and creative activity for all the warriors in your home, and these books would make a perfect project supplement during your ancient history studies too " -Sarah, My Joy-filled Life blog "One of the things I really wanted to see was just how easy the instructions were to follow... could my 11 and 12 year old sons do this by themselves? My husband used a saw to cut the PVC pipe, and other than that, I am happy to report that these were indeed made entirely by my kids Super, super easy And the best part? They had tons of fun making and playing with them I was extremely impressed with these toys and how much fun my boys had. Plus, the authors are a homeschooling family with young entrepreneurs How awesome is that?" -Jaime, Love Bakes Good Cakes blog "The directions for creating our swords were detailed and easy to follow. Pictures were included every step of the way to help ensure we stayed on track. Several notes were also included to explain why each step was important. We invited several friends over to build swords with us. It was fun to see how everyone decided to personalize their weapons with different duct tape designs.History has long been our family's favorite subject to study together and the Warfare by Duct Tape book has been a wonderful addition to our learning. These hands-on building projects have given us an opportunity to cut, form and tape our own weapons and helped us better understand the size and style of weapons we have seen in books and movies. The game descriptions have led us to discussions about topics like chivalry, battle strategy and the historical time periods in which these weapons would have been used.As much as we have enjoyed using these books, as a homeschooling parent I have to say that what I have appreciated the most about the book is the fact that they have been created by Mark and Steven, brothers and teenage homeschool entrepreneurs The information and attention to detail included in each book is very impressive." -Susan, Education Possible blog

This engaging book offers a lively and rigorous synthesis of the varied interconnections between work and globalization. Drawing on relevant sociological insights, and based on extensive, up-to-date research studies of work and employment, it brings together for the first time in a single volume a range of key topics, including: consumption, work and identity in a globalizing world; work and employment in multinationals; international labour standards; trade unions, labour movements and labour conflict under globalization; gender and inequality; migrant labour; transnational mobility; and the organization of work in global factories. Globalization and Work challenges conceptions of globalization as a project orchestrated by governments, multinational companies and international agencies. The authors highlight the importance of integrating a grounded, bottom-up perspective which recognizes that globalization is not just something that happens to working people, thereby revealing the fascinating extent to which workers actively engage in producing globalization. Throughout, the book contains a number of features to deepen understanding, including case study boxes of topical examples from across the globe.Globalization and Work is an essential new book for anyone interested in globalization, the sociology of work and comparative employment relations, especially undergraduate and postgraduate students taking modules on these and related topics.

This engaging book offers a lively and rigorous synthesis of the varied interconnections between work and globalization. Drawing on relevant sociological insights, and based on extensive, up-to-date research studies of work and employment, it brings together for the first time in a single volume a range of key topics, including: consumption, work and identity in a globalizing world; work and employment in multinationals; international labour standards; trade unions, labour movements and labour conflict under globalization; gender and inequality; migrant labour; transnational mobility; and the organization of work in global factories. Globalization and Work challenges conceptions of globalization as a project orchestrated by governments, multinational companies and international agencies. The authors highlight the importance of integrating a grounded, bottom-up perspective which recognizes that globalization is not just something that happens to working people, thereby revealing the fascinating extent to which workers actively engage in producing globalization. Throughout, the book contains a number of features to deepen understanding, including case study boxes of topical examples from across the globe.Globalization and Work is an essential new book for anyone interested in globalization, the sociology of work and comparative employment relations, especially undergraduate and postgraduate students taking modules on these and related topics.

What's the point of studying business from a social perspective?How can sociology aid my understanding of the big issues facing businesses today?Can thinking sociologically really equip me better for a career in business? This book provides an indispensable introduction to business and organizations from a social perspective. Using classic and contemporary ideas and evidence, the book explores the connections between people, work, organizations and society. Carefully illustrated with a range of up-to-date case studies, the book shows how sociology can shed light on current developments in the business world. Drawing on their considerable experience of teaching sociology to a range of audiences, the authors provide a straightforward but still stimulating step-by-step guide to issues such as: discrimination and diversity in the workplace; trade unionism and industrial disputes; the need for ethics and legislation; and the changing roles of managers and employees. The book provides: Clearly-defined learning aims;Questions for discussion and reflection;Annotated suggestions for further reading;In-depth case studies linking sociological ideas to business realities. Written with the needs of students taking degrees outside the traditional social sciences in mind, such as business studies, human resources and management, the book is suitable for those approaching sociology for the very first time. Accessible and inspirational, it will help students to grasp new and exciting possibilities for thinking about business in the contemporary world.

What's the point of studying business from a social perspective?How can sociology aid my understanding of the big issues facing businesses today?Can thinking sociologically really equip me better for a career in business? This book provides an indispensable introduction to business and organizations from a social perspective. Using classic and contemporary ideas and evidence, the book explores the connections between people, work, organizations and society. Carefully illustrated with a range of up-to-date case studies, the book shows how sociology can shed light on current developments in the business world. Drawing on their considerable experience of teaching sociology to a range of audiences, the authors provide a straightforward but still stimulating step-by-step guide to issues such as: discrimination and diversity in the workplace; trade unionism and industrial disputes; the need for ethics and legislation; and the changing roles of managers and employees. The book provides: Clearly-defined learning aims;Questions for discussion and reflection;Annotated suggestions for further reading;In-depth case studies linking sociological ideas to business realities. Written with the needs of students taking degrees outside the traditional social sciences in mind, such as business studies, human resources and management, the book is suitable for those approaching sociology for the very first time. Accessible and inspirational, it will help students to grasp new and exciting possibilities for thinking about business in the contemporary world.

During the last two decades there have been profound changes in the organization of work. Myths at Work explores these changes, critically examining and challenging some of the central frameworks that have been used to explain them. Global economic restructuring has brought about changes in the jobs we do, our labour market opportunities, and the shape of our individual career paths. These changes have been explained through a number of potent 'myths' (in the sense of widely-held bodies of ideas) including globalization, post-fordist production methods, and a new consumer-based form of capitalism. The authors examine these myths, explain how they have come about, and question their accuracy. While doing so they provide a more accurate picture of employment and the modern workplace. They also look at the 'myths' of the feminisation of the labour force, the skills revolution, lean production, non-standard employment, the death of class, the end of trade unionism, and the 'economic worker'. The result is an illuminating and accessible teaching and research text that will appeal to students and academics in the sociology of work, organizational behaviour, business studies, and related areas.