This fully updated fourth edition of Scott Sernau's highly acclaimed Social Inequality in a Global Age provides a sociological framework for analyzing inequality within the United States in the context of our changing global economy. With vivid examples and insightful analysis, this first-of-its-kind best seller offers students a complete picture of inequality and stratification systems. Using lively writing and examples drawn straight from today's headlines, Sernau explores each issue and dimension of inequality as he analyzes the relationship between global stratification and internal (domestic) systems of inequality. He also introduces both classical and contemporary theories of stratification to help interpret these real-world illustrations. Throughout, a focus on social action and community engagement encourages students to become involved, active learners in the classroom and in their communities.