Cavallaro, D (2001) 'Critical and Cultural theory'

an excellent introduction to critical theory. Contains excellent chapters on the gaze, ideology, subjectivity and much more.

Thomas, J. (ed) (2000) 'Reading Images'

An excellent collection of critical essays dealing with how one engages with visual culture. It includes the important essays by Foucault on 'Panopticism' and 'Las Meninas', Sontag's 'In Plato's Cave', Benjamin's 'Work of Art...' and Rosalind Coward's excellent and influential 'The Look'. Plus much more of course...

Haralambos and Holborn, 3rd ed (1991) 'Sociology: Themes and Perspectives 3rd Edition'

Probably the best introduction to Sociological theory available. The entire history of modern sociological thought condensed into one volume. Marxism, functionalism, Feminism, Postmodernism, subcultural theory- It's all here and the ideas of Marx, Durkheim etc are condensed into bite sized readable chunks. Highly recommended.

Lister, M. et al (2003) 'New Media: A Critical Introduction'

An excellent introductory text that provides some fascinating socio-historical and theoretical contexts for New Media practice and Cyberculture. Exhaustive bibliographies and pointers for further reading also.

Storey. J.,(2006) 'Cultural Theory & Popular Culture'

An excellent and wide ranging introduction to Cultural theory. Marxisms, feminisms, postmodernisms and a lot more are covered in an excellent and readable way.

Klein, N.M. (2004) 'From the Vatican to Vegas: The History of Special Effects'

A useful text which helps to link special FX practice to a diverse range of critical theory and historical contexts. Baudrillard to Deleuze to the Baroque! Excellent stuff.