Work and Employment, takes a specifically social constructionist view so as to explore work as an illustration of the construction of meaning at the institutional level of society. Finally, in Chapter 6, Margaret Wetherell explores, again through a social constructionist approach, the relationship between life history and social history, including fascinating illustrations of the construction of masculine identities.
I cannot see this book gaining a general readership outside of Higher Education, but the market within is still very large. When considering a volume that has essentially the form of a textbook, particular criteria apply. It is important that it is accurate, up to date, and covers an appropriate range of material in an accessible and stimulating manner. It is important that it is a flexible vehicle for use with diverse courses, and does not overly impose a particular or narrow intellectual structure. In all these respects this text is to be recommended.
There is perhaps no more telling compliment than one that is overheard. At the recent Annual Conference of the Social Psychology Section of the British Psychology Society, I was unexpectedly privy to a very enthusiastic account of the merits of this particular volume, and the authors were nowhere within earshot! Finally, it is important that all students of Social Psychology should try to see the historical and cultural linkages that extend across and through its subject area, and this is the other message that comes across from this exceptionally well thought-through book.