The Dangers of Defining Sociology Too Narrowly

Session Submission Type: Invited Session (90 minute)

Description

In a fraught socio-political environment of anti-DEI initiatives and efforts to restrict the teaching of sociology in particular states and locales, US-centric, narrow definitions of “sociology” tend to sideline more global, transnational, interdisciplinary, and feminist/queer perspectives. This panel will critically reflect on the potential dangers and harms of this tendency, including the field’s limited influence in shaping policies and public understanding and the marginalization of scholars who are taught that their research is not sufficiently sociological.

Sub Unit

• Special Session

Presider

• Ranita Ray, University of New Mexico-Albuquerque

Panelists

• Megan Carroll, California State Univ-San Bernardino

• Tristen Kade, University of California, Santa Barbara

Session Organizer

• Jennifer Randles, California State University-Fresno