Our Elgar Concise Introductions are inspiring and considered. They explain the key principles in business and social science and are expertly written by some of the world's leading scholars. The aims of the series are two-fold: to pinpoint essential concepts and to offer insights that stimulate critical thinking. This compelling Concise Introduction establishes social psychology as a key influential approach to understanding thoughts, feelings and behaviors, surveying crucial articles and landmark research projects. Leading scholar Roy F. Baumeister draws on four decades of experience in social psychology to present an overview of the field, from its nascent phase in the 1950-60s to contemporary research. Key features: Concise and accessible chapters provide insights into social psychology: the study of how individuals think, feel and act Traces theoretical and methodological developments in social psychology since the mid-20th century and calls for greater inclusion of non-Western perspectives Explores key topics including the human self, prosocial and antisocial behavior, thought processes concerning social situations, prejudice, emotion, and close relationships The Concise Introduction to Social Psychology is a fundamental resource for students and researchers in social psychology, personality psychology and the wider social and behavioural sciences. Its erudite insights will also benefit practitioners, educators and other professionals looking for an introduction to the field.