Modern Switzerland: A Volume in the Comparative Societies Series

One in a series of short books devoted to different countries that offers much-needed cross-cultural and global material to instructors. Used alongside an introductory sociology text or as a supplement in courses on comparative societies, comparative politics, comparative economics, or social stratification, this book brings a rich global perspective into the undergraduate classroom. The opening chapter establishes historical and cultural context, while subsequent chapters focus on the basic institutions, social stratification, social problems and social change. The chapter organization is typical of a standard introductory sociology text making it easy to use in any class.The style of this book is both analytical and personal drawing on the author's own experiences growing up and later working in Switzerland. It introduces students to many of the fascinating aspects of Swiss society such as the peaceful coexistence of its several cultures, its direct democracy, and the international connections of its banking and manufacturing industries. The organization of this book brings out the country's internal diversity, its firm traditions, as well as its creative responses to modern developments.