This distinctive new text blends discussion of race, ethnicity, and difference with debates on social exclusion and inclusion. The author addresses the major problems societies face around the world, including the nature and roots of social inequalities and tensions between different groups based on race, ethnicity, culture, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, and class. Accessible and topical, this book is suitable for advanced undergraduate and postgraduate students in sociology, social policy, politics, and social welfare.