FOUNDATIONS OF MODERN SOCIOLOGY. CANADIAN 4TH ED. Spencer, Metta. Scarborough (Ont.), Prentice-Hall, c1985. 637pp, paperbound boards, $32.95, ISBN 0-13-330317-9. CIP Grades 12 and up Reviewed by Ruth Rausa Volume 13 Number 6 1985 November The Foundations of Modern Sociology series is made up of several works, each written by a subject specialist and introducing a particular subfield within the discipline. This textbook has been incorporated into the series as an introduction to familiarize the student with the basic concepts and ideas of sociology and to provide a broad overview. Sounds dull, right? Wrong. Dr. Spencer, a professor at the University of Toronto, has written a most readable textbook. She writes about issues that are alive and significant and links them to sociological concepts. For example, in this particular edition of the textbook, Spencer includes a chapter entitled "War and Peace" that deals with the threat of nuclear war and introduces the subject of conflict and aggression. Each chapter tackles a different topic in sociology, deviance, socialization, culture, etc., and the major theories, concepts, and controversies relating to that subject area are explored. Two special sections supplement each chapter. The first, entitled "The Social Research: Social Scientists at Work," focuses on recent empirical research in the topic area of the chapter. "The Social Policy: Issues and Viewpoints" discusses political, economic, or ethical issues and the role that sociologists play in shaping the world. Other features include a list of key terms, an annotated bibliography, a chapter summary, and a bibliography, which conclude each chapter, in addition to a glossary and index at the back of the book. Although they were not reviewed, three supplementary aids are also available; a study guide and workbook, a test item file, and an instructor's manual. This work should have a definite place in every introductory sociology course. Recommended. Ruth Rausa, Toronto, Ont.