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The fifth edition of this classic textbook that to explore the origins, nature and context of illness in society, and provides a framework for understanding the relationship between health, health care and the society in which it occurs. Divided into 14 clinically relevant chapters (from Going to the Doctor, through to The Social Role of Medicine), this highly readable book gives a coherent, integrated account that will enable students to understand 'illness behaviour' and what lies behind a given patient's decision to see a doctor about this problem, now. The author is, in addition to being a highly acclaimed medical sociologist, a clinician by training and experience who understands the practical importance of the fundamental concepts that guide his specialty.