Now in its second edition, Canadian Society in the 21st Century: A Historical Sociological Approach opens up an engaging and much-needed overview of our society, at a level appropriate for a wide range of courses in Canadian Studies, Sociology, and History. This original work examines the growth and development of Canadian society within a socio-historical framework. The authors investigate historical, economic, political, cultural, and ideological perspectives through three key relationships: Quebec and Canada, Canada and the United States, and Canada and the Aboriginal Nations.

• Examines society as a set of relationships that emerge gradually over time as fostered, encouraged, and mediated by a set of institutions, in particular, the state and markets.
• Explores society as the product of an historical narrative - a movie, rather than a snapshot - which enlists many literary devices, including myths, metaphors, symbols, heroes, villains, and tragic figures.
• Identifies the complex relationship between individuals and society. Students are asked to consider to what extent individuals create society, and conversely, to what extent society creates individuals.

Trevor W. Harrison is a retired Professor of Sociology at the University of Lethbridge. He is best known for his studies in political sociology, political economy, and public policy. He is the author, co-author, or co-editor of eleven books, including a book of poetry, as well as numerous journal articles, chapters, and reports. Dr. Harrison is a frequent contributor to public media, including radio and television.

Trevor W. Harrison's profile page

John W. Friesen, PhD, DMin, is a professor in the Faculty of Education at the University of Calgary, where he conducts research in Aboriginal education and teacher training. An ordained clergyman with the All Native Circle Conference of the United Church of Canada, he has authored or co-authored more than 50 books.

John W. Friesen's profile page

"I wish I'd had this book when I taught this course. As the authors ably point out, it is hard to understand present day conflicts and conditions without understanding the forces that led to where we are today."— “Vic Satzewich, McMaster University