Books by Kenneth Roberts

Whereas leisure was once treated as a social service, a business culture has swept through what remains of the voluntary and public sectors today. Ken Roberts explains how and why this has happened, what it means for tourism, sport, the arts and broadcasting, and why events, in particular mega-events, have become prize acquisitions. The Business of Leisure addresses the trend towards commercialisation in the provision of leisure that has not only continued but accelerated since the 2004 publication of The Leisure Industries. This updated second edition reflects how recent developments such as the age of austerity, demographic changes and the rise of digital information technologies have transformed the leisure sector. At the same time, the book demonstrates how voluntary associations and public providers have been able to withstand the ever-growing pressures from big business and commerce. This thought-provoking text provides both a historical overview and an up-to-date introduction to the contemporary study of leisure. It is an invaluable resource for students in areas such as Leisure Studies and Management, Sports Studies, Tourism and Events Management, as well as those on Management, Business and Sociology courses.

Britain is one of the most unequal countries in the western world: the richest one per cent own a vast proportion of the wealth, while both the pay gap and spending habits remain incredibly divisive. How do such divisions reflect contemporary ideas of class? In what way does economic life affect individuals and social relationships? What are the implications for society as a whole?This thoroughly revised second edition of Class in Contemporary Britain uses class theory to interrogate and explain patterns and trends in economic inequalities, and to explore their consequences from a sociological view. Addressing and debating timely questions, this new edition:* Assesses different ways of mapping class structures through class schemes * Highlights the continued importance of class in sociological study and analyses contemporary social class divisions* Explores key topics, including social mobility, voting habits and education * Reflects on recent changes and developments in the field, from environmental and technological concerns to shifts in class demographicsThis comprehensive and accessible book disentangles the complex ties between economic, social and political perspectives on class in contemporary Britain. It is essential reading for all social sciences students who are studying class.

Complementing the student's primary reading, Key Concepts in Sociology presents a comprehensive glossary of the key terms, concepts and figures that dominate the sociological landscape. Organized alphabetically and cross-referenced for ease of use and accessibility, the book also provides suggestions for further reading to consolidate learning.