Education is seen as central to economic competitiveness the reduction of poverty & inequality & environmental sustainability. The editors have selected key writings that examine the social & economic limits- & possibilities of-education in addressing these fundamental problems. This new reader establishes the field of sociology of education with a particular focus on papers that analyse the nature & extent of globalization in education. A general introduction presents the key concepts in the sociology of education & outlines the major theories & debates especially in relation to globalization. Each section is accompanied by a part opener explaining & contextualizing the readings within a larger educational & sociological context.