Are all men the same? What do men want? What makes a "real man"? During the 1990s and into the new millennium, questions such as these have been raised across social and cultural arenas in local and global contexts. In response, this work adopts an international perspective and meets the current need for a comprehensive introduction to contemporary debates about men and masculinity. Through a broad critical review of masculinity studies, the book provides an original synthesis of main theories, key concepts and empirical research. Designed to provide an up-to-date guide to the field, it combines the traditional sociological enquiry into the family, work and education with contemporary concerns about multiple identities, globalization and late modernity. Written in a clear style, this text is valuable reading for those studying men and masculinities across sociology, gender/sexuality studies, cultural studies, and politics, as well as anyone with a wider interest in the future of gender relations.