This pioneering new book suggests how different traditions of sociological thought can contribute to an understanding of the theory and practice of rights. It provides a sociological treatment of a wide range of substantive issues but never loses sight of key theoretical questions. This book: considers some varied cases of public intervention, including welfare, caring, mental health provisions, pensions, justice and free speech, alongside the rights issues they raise; and examines the question of rights from the point of view of distinctive population groups, such as prisoners and victims, women, ethnic minorities, indigenous peoples, and lesbians and gays. A key strength of the book lies in its detailed presentation and analysis of different aspects of rights, and in the exploration of a variety of analytical perspectives. Rights are seen not in terms of ethical certainty but as the product of social processes, and part of shifting terrain which is open to negotiation.Including a theoretical critique of existing perspectives, ''Rights: Sociological Perspectives'' offers a diverse and detailed exploration of the contribution, sociological thought can make to this increasingly important aspect of social life and will be an invaluable aid to students.