Targeted: Protecting and Defending Sociologists in Politicized Times

Session Submission Type: Invited Session (90 minute)

Description

In recent years, sociologists have increasingly found themselves at the center of political and ideological attacks. From smear campaigns to institutional pressure and public discrediting, scholars working on race, gender, inequality, climate, and social justice are frequently targeted by actors seeking to delegitimize their work and undermine trust in social science. These attacks have real consequences—not only for individual researchers’ safety, careers, and well-being, but also for the broader integrity and public value of sociology as a field. This session brings together scholars and advocates to examine political and cultural attacks on sociologists; the emotional, professional, and epistemic harms experienced by targeted individuals; the chilling effects on research, teaching, and public engagement; and most importantly, strategies for protection, resistance, and solidarity.

Sub Unit

• Special Session

Presider

• Arlene J. Stein

Panelists

• Tamara Kay, University of Pittsburgh

• Saida Grundy, Boston University

• Jennifer Hickes Lundquist, University of Massachusetts-Amherst

• Heather Steffen, Faculty First Responders

Session Organizer

• Marianne Cooper, Stanford University