Elevating Sociological Voices in Public Policy

Session Submission Type: Invited Session (90 minute)

Description

One important avenue for sociologists to create social change is through public policy. Historically, policy discussions prioritized the expertise of economists (and, to a lesser extent, political scientists) in providing research, data and analysis to solve contemporary social problems. However, sociologists are uniquely positioned not only to deepen our understanding of social problems, but to reimagine public policy in ways that value lived experiences, center equity in a policy agenda, integrate mixed methodologies and highlight the complexity of the social world. Drawing on multiple policy domains, this panel highlights the opportunities for sociological voices to shape the policy process and improve policy outcomes. It challenges sociologists to actually articulate the unique contribution of the discipline to these discussions, rather than simply holding up sociological research alongside that of other disciplines. To do so, the panel will address how sociological approaches differ from those of other disciplines, and ask participants to be more assertive in highlighting those differences. Consistent with the meeting theme of disrupting the status quo, this panel emphasizes opportunities to work for a more equitable society through multiple levels of policy, including local, state and federal policy.

Sub Unit

• Thematic Session

Presider

• Eva Rosen, Georgetown University

Panelists

• Celeste M. Watkins-Hayes, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

• Sandra S. Smith, Harvard University

• Stefanie Ann DeLuca, Johns Hopkins University

• Brian James McCabe, Georgetown University

Session Organizer

• Brian James McCabe, Georgetown University