Community-based Work and the Accompanying Changes in Sociology

• In Event: 2466 - Speed Networking (1 hour)
  In Refereed Roundtable 60min: Table 1- Community Work, Community Research

Abstract

Community-based work has been embraced by many fields in recent years. This demand stems from recognition in the need and importance of both local knowledge and local control for the success and sustainability of research and interventions. While sociology may appear to be a natural fit for community-based work, we argue that several features of sociology must be reconsidered for engaging in community-based work. We present, challenge and modify six central themes of traditional sociology, mainly epistemological, to seriously consider community-based work in sociology. The paper concludes with recommendations for the sociologist who wish to reexamine their role in the community.

Authors

• Felicia Casanova, University of Miami

• John Murphy, University of Miami