Sociologists at Work in Boston
by Jackie Cooper, the core theoretical and ASA Public Information Office analytic tools we use to get at contemporary realities oston upheld its reputation as the of work, workers, and the B“Athens of America” as sociologists workplace.” from around the United States and abroad Dovetailing on the topic converged on the city to share research and of insecurity, a plenary fea- discuss “Worlds of Work,” the theme of the turing Christopher Jencks ASA’s 103rd Annual Meeting last month. (Harvard University), The conference theme—speaking to American Prospect co- both the increasing diversity by which founder Robert Kuttner, work is organized and experienced and to and former U.S. Secretary From left to right: Douglas Massey, Jorge Castaneda, and Julia the cross-national and historical diversity of Health and Human Preston at the “Barriers and Bridges” plenary. in work activities, institutions, and experi- Services Donna Shalala ences—drew the third-highest attendance featured a discussion ing the Boston Convention and Exhibition in ASA history with 5,458 attendees. of “Reinventing the American Dream.” Center and the Hynes Convention Center. The meeting’s program, developed by Another plenary on United States-Mexico Prior to arriving in Boston, the ASA President Arne Kalleberg and the 2008 immigration cited insecurity as a reason for Council voted to support fair labor Volume 36 • Number 7 September-October 2008 Volume Program Committee, included 470 break- the growing anti-immigration sentiment practices in a dispute between Aramark out sessions, five plenary sessions, and six in this country. At this informative plenary and UNITE HERE Local 26, the Boston presidential panels focusing on topics tied moderated by New York Times reporter Hotel and Foodservice Workers Union. to the conference theme. Julia Preston, Douglas Massey (Princeton As a result, ASA declined to contract The state of work was the subject of University), and former Mexican foreign with Aramark for food services inside the Kalleberg’s presidential address, in which minister Jorge Castaneda discussed the bar- Hynes Convention Center, the site of the he discussed the increasing risk, insecurity, riers and bridges of immigration. Annual Meeting’s exhibits, poster ses- and unpredictability of employment today. Beyond immigration, the challenges sions, bookstore, employment service, and In the address, which was preceded by the and responsibilities of globalization and registration areas. Water stations were set ASA major awards ceremony (see article work were the focus of a plenary featuring up at the entrance, but in order to sup- on award recipients in the November 2008 Harvard’s Rosabeth Moss Kanter, MIT econ- port the workers, ASA made no refresh- Footnotes), Kalleberg explored the causes omist Michael Piore, and Erik Olin Wright of ments available through Aramark inside and consequences of the increasing insta- the University of Wisconsin-Madison. this area of the meeting. Several attendees bility of jobs and its implications for policy. participated in a march from the Sheraton Sociologists in Action “The growth of precarious work creates Boston to the Hynes Convention Center in new challenges and opportunities for soci- The opening plenary session, “The Future solidarity with the union. In a special letter ologists seeking to explain this phenom- of the American Labor Movement,” fore- of appreciation to members of the ASA, enon and to help frame effective policies to told the decline of U.S. labor unions. Amid UNITE HERE Local 26 expressed its grati- address its consequences,” said Kalleberg discussions of work and labor issues, a real- tude for ASA’s support. As of mid-August, in his address. “To meet these challenges, world scenario was playing out during the no resolution had been reached. we need to revisit, reorient, and reconsider Annual Meeting in a labor dispute involv- See Annual Meeting, page 5
A New Perspective with Patricia Hill Collins inside Profile of the 100th ASA President Beginning in adolescence, I was increas- Sociology was taught at Brandeis, where A Science Fair on by Elizabeth Higginbotham, University of Delaware ingly the “first,” “one of the few,” or the they embraced a sociology of knowledge 3 Capitol Hill “only” African American and/or woman approach. Sociology was also the place Ohio State University sociologists welcome this opportunity to introduce the and/or working class person in my where race was studied. I liked how schools, communities, and work settings. this major enabled me to reach in many spoke to policymakers about race, I2009 ASA President, Patricia Hill Collins, residence, and crime. I saw nothing wrong with being who I directions. to the sociology community. Patricia Hill was, but apparently many others did. My Collins is the 100th president of the ASA An important advisor at Brandeis world grew larger, but I felt I was growing was Pauli Murray, an African American AIDS as a Social Science and the first African American woman to smaller. I tried to disappear into myself in woman who had opened many doors dur- 4 Issue hold this office. Her election is one of the order to deflect the painful, daily assaults many “firsts” that we are witnessing in this designed to teach me that being an ing the Civil Rights movement. Pat saw her Sociologists have long been new millennium, as some of the barriers African American, working-class woman connection to Murray important to inter- involved in AIDS research, but that have existed for women and people of made me lesser than those who were not. generational community building, as those more is needed in the realm of color have lifted. What is the path that has And as I felt smaller, I become quieter who gain in one era have to work for social intervention. and eventually was virtually silenced brought our new president to the leadership change over their careers. Even in college, (Collins, 1990, p. xi). of our national organization? Pat was involved in progressive educa- Thinking Ahead to Atlanta Entering Brandeis in 1965, Pat used tional pursuits in Boston’s Black commu- 5 Propose a session related to the The Life her time to reclaim that voice. nity. After college, she secured an “Sociology of Citizenship” for the Patricia Hill was born in Philadelphia Migrating from Philadelphia to MAT in Social Science Education 2010 Annual Meeting now. in 1948, the only child to Eunice Randolph the Boston area meant moving at Harvard University in 1970. As Hill and Albert Hill. Her parents were into new communities where a teacher, she was very involved directly affected by World War II. Her one can see how others lived, in curriculum development at Bringing Sociological what they assume, and their St. Joseph’s School, a diverse 7 Practitioners to the father was a veteran who met her mother in Washington, DC, where she had agendas. Majoring in sociol- community-based school in Forefront migrated to during the war to work. Pat ogy, which offered the freedom Roxbury. She participated in The Sociological Practice section is part of a cohort of working-class youth to shape her own pursuits, many of the progressive educa- seeks to address the concerns of who had educational opportunities long Patricia received her BA in 1969. Patricia Hill Collins tional developments regarding applied sociologists. denied their parents. During the 1950s Regarding her choice of major, inner city schooling. From 1976- and 1960s, most northern cities had public she commented: 1980, she was the Director of the African Science Policy...... 2 schools that were channels for social As an undergraduate I did not think that American Center at Tufts University, From the Executive Officer...... 2 mobility. Schools were well funded, but all the answers were personal or in your involved with many initiatives in program- head. Sociology was right between the ming and staffing. While working at Tufts, navigating them was not easy. Pat was a sciences and philosophy. The sciences, Sociologists in Research quiet, but diligent, student in Philadelphia. she met and married Roger Collins in 1977 with an emphasis on empirical data, can and gave birth to their daughter Valerie in and Applied Settings...... 6 Her education there was a stepping stone reveal some of the hidden structures 1979. In 1980, she returned to Brandeis to Public Sociology...... 8 to Brandeis University. Writing in Black and patterns that are not obvious to you, Feminist Thought, she said that, contrary to whether you are talking about explaining pursue a doctorate in sociology. She was Announcements...... 10 the support she had in the Black working- natural or social phenomena. Philosophy an ASA Minority Fellow and the recipient offers explanations and interpretations. of a Sydney Spivack Dissertation Support Obituaries...... 14 class community, the spaces she was deseg- regating were less welcoming: I was particularly drawn to the way that See Collins, page 6 2 footnotes • September-October 2008
from the executive officer Federal Support for Basic Research and Training of the Future Scientific Workforce ith the national political party con- had success in advocating for critical fund- This is compared to an inflation-adjusted sustained effort with national priorities and Wventions behind us and Americans ing of the National Institutes of Health, the growth of 5% in all nonfederal funding for appropriate safeguards to insure research contemplating the nation’s future execu- National Science Foundation (NSF), and the universities’ R&D spending in FY 2007. quality and integrity. This includes a tive and legislative leadership, the federal Census Bureau. Additional efforts to help Given noteworthy increases in R&D fund- national commitment to training our future government’s commitment to basic science NSF are ongoing as of this writing. ing from industry to universities, we may scientific workforce as well as supporting should be a matter for significant national This unhealthy roller-coaster “decision” be witnessing a new age for basic research. our basic science. According to unoffi- dialogue. Yet it is not. It remains relegated process makes healthy fiscal results for The ratio of total R&D expenditures cial estimates, in FY 2008, NSF will have to a back burner by Congress, which is the research (and statistical) agencies impossi- from all sources to the U.S. Gross Domestic supported 1,000 fewer grants, issued 230 key research budget decision ble (think of the 2010 Census Product (GDP) is widely viewed as a useful fewer graduate fellowships, and reduced maker. Because of continu- or the Crime Victimization measure of the nation’s commitment to support of both the Faculty Early Career ing bitter battles between the Survey) and undermines the R&D. NSF estimates, in an August InfoBrief, Development program and for the Research White House and Capitol long-term, steady progress that “[t]he broader trend has been move- Experiences for Undergraduates program. Hill, budget conflicts have essential to the advancement ment of the ratio toward a modestly higher Avoiding further erosion of NSF’s ability not been resolved and U.S. of basic science and scientific level [of 2.5% – 2.7% over the last decade] to help maintain the nation’s leadership science agencies once again face an environ- training. So, while many Americans have since a low point of 2.39% in the mid- and competitiveness in science, technol- ment lacking an orderly funding process been participating in the nation’s historic 1990s.” However, according to NSF author ogy, engineering, and mathematics and and predictable appropriations by the election, our current elected federal leader- Mark Boroush, most of the increase over the ensuring the growth of other areas of basic October 1 start of the 2009 federal fiscal ship has lost its initially impressive headway last several decades is a function of nonfed- social science funding, such as the National year (FY). on crafting the FY 2009 federal budget and eral (especially industry) spending. Institutes of Health, is an important prior- securing the future of the U.S. scientific Notwithstanding three consecutive ity for scientific associations such as ASA. Federal Disorganization… enterprise. years of a decline in funding between We will watch the results of the upcoming These money feuds typically churn out FY 2001 and FY 2004, industry funding elections for their implications regarding …or Federal Policy? out last-minute, late-night “bridge fund- of academic R&D in science and engi- both the nation’s commitment to enhanced ing” called Continuing Budget Resolutions The administration and congressional neering grew 11.2% to $2.7 billion in federal support for science and scientific (CRs). These are band-aid-like patches that leaders have not faltered just this year. FY 2007, according to the NSF Survey of training and the need for improved appro- keep the government alive, thus avoid- In FY 2007, federally funded research Research and Development Expenditures priations processes that determine and ing a government shutdown (such as the and development (R&D) for science and at Universities and Colleges. State and local prioritize our federal research and training one beginning in 1995) by tiding agencies engineering at colleges and universities government R&D funding also grew by budgets, for our future’s sake. over until either all 13 funding bills are fell 1.6% from FY 2006, when adjusted for 6.1% in FY 2007, increasing to $3.1 bil- passed or the normal process is bypassed inflation, according to the NSFSurvey of lion. Funding from academic institutions with a poorly considered, cobbled together Research and Development Expenditures at themselves increased 6.6% in FY 2007 Sally Hillsman is the omnibus funding bill. Omnibus bills have Universities and Colleges released in August to $9.7 billion. Funding from all other Executive Officer of ASA. tortured the federal agencies since Congress 2008. This is the second consecutive drop sources combined, including nonprofit She can be reached by adopted its budget process in 1974. Because for R&D at institutions of higher educa- organizations and nongovernmental enti- email at executive.office@ they have more pages than multiple New tion and unprecedented since 1972 when ties, increased 10% to $3.5 billion. In sum, asanet.org. York City phonebooks, legislators and staff the NSF began this particular survey. This adjusted for inflation, academic R&D rose are unlikely to read them, providing safe latest 1.6% year-over-year decline follows by 0.8% in FY 2007. havens for pork-barrel allocations and dubi- a 0.2% decline between FY 2005 and FY Where To? ous regulations that are not likely passed 2006. The more important issue, however, when attention is being paid. is whether this is a trend to be blamed on A continuing strong federal role in basic During the disorganized CR process, changing policy priorities or short-term R&D is important. Institutions of higher constituencies make desperate appeals— bickering that will work itself out. education and state and local governments resulting in proposals for supplemental The federal government is the larg- have their roles to play in the support of funding—to help agencies restore a sem- est source of academic R&D funding, scientific research, as does industry and col- Published monthly with combined issues blance of smooth fiscal planning within accounting for more than 60% of total laborations among all of these. But univer- in May/June, July/August, and September/ which to make intelligent and informed R&D expenditures in most years. However, sity and state budgets are sorely challenged October. Mailed free to all ASA members. spending decisions. ASA, for example, par- the federal government’s overall share of and, even in the best of times, are not up to Subscription, $40. Single copies, $3. ticipates regularly in supplemental funding the $49.4 billion total (from all sources) of shouldering the national effort. Nor should Editor: Sally T. Hillsman advocacy through the Consortium of Social academic R&D funding has now decreased they be. The nation’s scientific enterprise Associate Editor: K. Lee Herring Science Associations (COSSA), and recently from 64% in FY 2005 to 62% in FY 2007. should be a nationally supported and Managing Editor: Johanna Olexy Secretary: Donald Tomaskovic-Devey science policy Article submissions are limited to 1,000 words and must have journalistic value Sociologist received an NIH MERIT Websites seek to streamline research research organizations. It will house up to (e.g., timeliness, significant impact, general award and funding searches 20,000 documents by the end of 2008. interest) rather than be research oriented Linda J. Waite, a National Opinion Two new websites seek to simplify The American Community Survey or scholarly in nature. Submissions will be Research Center (NORC) Research searches by making resources and research reviewed by the editorial board for pos- (ACS) releases income, poverty, and sible publication. “ASA Forum” (including Associate and University of Chicago available in one location. Research.gov, led earnings data. Professor of Sociology, received a National by the National Science Foundation (NSF), letters to the editor) contributions are limited to 400–600 words; “Obituaries,” Institutes of Health (NIH) MERIT award allows institutions and grantees to access The U.S. Census Bureau has released data from the 2007 American Community 500–700 words; and “Announcements,” (Method to Extend Research in Time). streamlined research grant management 200 words. All submissions should include Survey (ACS) income, poverty, and earnings MERIT awards are among the most selective services and other resources for multiple a contact name and, if possible, an e-mail research grants given by the NIH, with less federal agencies in one location. The web- data. Similar to last year’s release, the 2007 address. ASA reserves the right to edit all than five percent of NIH-funded investiga- site offers the following publicly available ACS includes one-year estimates for the material published for style and length. tors selected as recipients. MERIT awards information services that anyone can access: nation, 50 states, the District of Columbia, The deadline for all material is the first of provide long-term support to Research Spending and Results Puerto Rico, and every metropolitan area the month preceding publication (e.g., experienced researchers who Search, Policy Library, Research with populations of 65,000 or more. The February 1 for March issue). have demonstrated superior Headlines, Grants Application annual release of ACS income, earnings, Send communications on material, sub- competence and outstand- Status, and Institution and and poverty data is in conjunction with the scriptions, and advertising to: American ing productivity in research User Management. The second Census Bureau’s annual release of income, Sociological Association, 1430 K Street, endeavors of special importance website is PolicyArchive (www. poverty, and health insurance estimates Suite 600, Washington, DC 20005; (202) 383-9005; fax (202) 638-0882; email foot- or promise. Waite’s recent work PolicyArchive.org), a free, com- from the Annual Social and Economic [email protected];
American Sociological Association footnotes.asanet.org footnotes • September-October 2008 3 ASA Brings Sociology to The Past, Present, and Capitol Hill Future of the Journal of World- ashington, DC, June 25—ASA Peterson and Krivo found that race, Systems Research Wsponsored another successful and place, and neighborhood conditions are popular science poster on Capitol Hill at intricately connected in the United States. by Andrew K. Jorgenson and Edward L. The overall composition of the edito- the Coalition for National Science Funding Racialized inequality, particularly neigh- Kick, North Carolina State University rial body reflects our hopeful trajectory (CNSF) 14th Annual Exhibition and borhood socioeconomic disadvantage, has for JWSR. For instance, with respect to Reception. ASA has consistently par- dramatic implications for violent crime in t its January 2008 meeting, the scholarly manuscripts, we especially invite ticipated for several years in this annual urban neighborhoods. American Sociological Association submissions that advance theory and showcasing of exem- A Council approved a recommendation methodology. Contributions from a range plary National Science from the Committee on Publications of orientations are encouraged, with the Foundation-supported for formal sponsorship of the Journal of journal’s emphasis placed on the accumu- research for the purpose World Systems Research (JWSR) by the lation of knowledge through academic of educating policymak- ASA Section on Political Economy of contest across multiple perspectives. We ers about this important the World-System (PEWS). JWSR is the are committed to the journal’s longstand- science agency. second official section journal approved ing pluralistic stance on methodology and Ohio State University by the ASA. It is an open-access, online theory, and we are firmly dedicated to sociologists Ruth journal, with support from the PEWS increasing the journal’s visibility and acces- Peterson and Lauren section. Beginning in 2009, all articles sibility in the discipline of sociology as a Krivo displayed their published by JWSR will be copyrighted whole. Submission guidelines are available research, Race, Residence by ASA. The journal brings together at
interest in the pandemic (HIV incidence). Sociological AIDS Research Needs an Intervention So, these approaches typically are derided by the biomedical community as not really by Judith D. Auerbach* infection, or investigate the social etiol- program staff positions and on peer review being HIV prevention interventions. ogy of the disease (i.e., its roots in poverty, panels. Another, related feature is the Additionally, when social interventions n an April 2005 C-SPAN interview, gender-based violence, discrimination, movement toward “evidence-based public are implemented, the time lag inherent in IPeter Piot, Director of the Joint United mobility, etc.). health,” an outgrowth of “evidence-based evaluating their impact on either interme- Nations Programme on AIDS (UNAIDS), Sociologists also have examined the medicine.” This approach emphasizes diate, distal, or proximate HIV outcomes proclaimed that AIDS has been rede- multiple impacts, or consequences, of the application and valuation of rigor- at the population level can be significant, fined as “not just a medical curiosity but HIV/AIDS on individuals, families, ous research methodologies in public and funders and policy makers want to as an obstacle to social and economic communities, and societies. Social health science that parallel those see measurable results right away. All of development . . . and also as a threat to research has illuminated the effect used in clinical research—chiefly, these factors make it difficult to design and security and stability.” While this state- of local epidemics on demo- the adoption of experimental implement social and structural interven- ment may have been revelatory to those graphic trends, household struc- study design, and specifically, tions that will pass muster with existing in the biomedical and clinical world who ture and functioning, informal the randomized controlled trial funders, scientific review groups, and have never considered the social nature caregiving, gender relations and (RCT)—for assessing intervention policy makers. of AIDS, to the social science community dynamics, education, economy efficacy. As a result of these trends, Behavioral scientists—particularly it registered a big “duh.” Since the begin- (including food insecurity and pov- the questions, models, and meth- health psychologists—on the other hand, ning of the epidemic, sociologists have erty), and governance and security. ods of biomedical and clinical have fared well under the NIH system, as pointed out that HIV/AIDS is not solely an Sociologists have been research have dominated they were able early on to pull off the shelf individual biological problem but is also a much less engaged, however, what is considered merito- existing behavioral change intervention social phenomenon associated with social in the domain of interven- rious and fundable science models from other areas of health promo- ties and other forms of social influences, tions research, which is at the NIH (and elsewhere). tion and disease prevention and test them be these cultural, political, economic, or where most of the action in The problem for sociologists, in experimental designs for their efficacy in environmental. HIV/AIDS has been for the past two of course, is that it is exceedingly HIV/AIDS risk reduction at the individual Sociologists have noted the imperative decades. Early in the epidemic, the life- difficult—and often inappropriate—to and small-group levels. As a result, a robust to understand and address social drivers and-death urgency of the response led the fit social-level analysis and interven- portfolio of behavioral interventions has that affect how, where, and why different National Institutes of Health (NIH)—then tion design into this hegemonic mode emerged over the past 20 years, such that groups of people are more vulnerable to or and now the largest funder of AIDS of inquiry in HIV/AIDS research, which numerous meta-analyses of the outcomes resilient against HIV infection. We have research globally—to focus on interven- today is characterized by: (1) a focus on of these interventions have been published. argued that, unless the social, political, tions in both the biomedical and the the individual as the unit of analysis, par- In 2004, the Centers for Disease Control and cultural contexts that affect individu- behavioral and social science fields. The ticularly with respect to behavior change and Prevention identified 42 behavioral als’ levels and experiences of “risk” are imperative to develop effective therapies, and disease outcomes; (2) the valorization interventions demonstrated to be effica- addressed, the overall impact of individ- a vaccine, and behavioral interventions of the RCT as the gold standard—and cious in “well-designed studies” (i.e., using ual-level HIV prevention and treatment became institutionalized in the prioritiza- thus, the only acceptable method—of experimental methods) and is disseminat- interventions will be limited. But, until tion of research activities and the alloca- intervention testing and evaluation; and ing a number of these interventions for recently, this perspective has had little tion of budget at the NIH (through an (3) the imperative to demonstrate disease adoption by community-based organiza- currency in the collective discourse of the annual strategic planning process involving outcomes—specifically HIV incidence, not tions throughout the United States. There AIDS research community. NIH program staff and external scientists just behavior change or social change— is no comparable set of social interventions Historically, the impact of social and advocates). Although the mid-1990s from HIV prevention studies. with demonstrated effectiveness in reducing science—and American sociology, in saw a shift back to emphasizing basic As sociologists well know, the complex HIV-associated risk and HIV infection rates particular—on the response to AIDS biomedical research, this refocusing did social phenomena that fuel HIV transmis- from which program managers and policy domestically and globally has been notably not apply to basic behavioral and social sion—such as gender relations, sexual vio- makers can choose what to implement. minimal, despite the fact that sociologists research, which continued to prioritize and lence, economic inequality and instability, Engaging social scientists in the kind of have been engaged in AIDS research from fund intervention studies. and violations of human rights—cannot be HIV prevention research needed to fill this the beginning of the epidemic in three There are a number of possible explana- reduced to a handful of variables that can gap will require the following: areas: social determinants (or “drivers”) of tions for why sociologists have not fared easily be modified or controlled for testing • Strong public statements by the likes of HIV/AIDS; social impacts of HIV/AIDS; well in this scheme. Chief among them is in experimental designs. It is precisely Peter Piot that we need social science, and social and behavioral interventions the social organization of the biomedical the confounding of people’s individual, not just social awareness, to fight AIDS; to mitigate HIV/AIDS transmission. The research enterprise at NIH that has mili- community, and social characteristics that • Recognition in the scientific and pub- social determinants literature constitutes tated against the development of a robust explains the problem of HIV transmission lic health fields that there are multiple the basic social science research designed repertoire of social strategies for HIV in the first place. ways of knowing (i.e., RCTs are not to elucidate the fundamental social mecha- prevention and mitigation. One key feature Moreover, social interventions address the only method for ascertaining evi- nisms underlying the spread of infectious of that organization is the institutionalized outcomes that often are perceived as at best dence; see
with consultants and the departments they Building on the Strengths of the Department Resources Group serve located in every corner of the nation. by Margaret Weigers Vitullo, wide variety of titles in their home institu- This year-long effort resulted in 49 Therefore, the working groups identified a ASA Academic and Professional tions, from full professor to assistant to specific recommendations that fall into need for a transparent and effective track- Affairs Program the provost, and they work in departments four broad categories: marketing, training, ing system to help manage the needs and that vary in size from 20 to 300 majors. tracking, and assessment. the results of the program. f it’s not broken, don’t fix it.” Contrary ASA covers the costs of training and Marketing. As departments work to Assessment. Finally, the DRG will “Ito this popular sentiment, ASA’s maintaining the DRG program, and meet the challenges of higher education in model the concept of assessment in Department Resources Group (DRG) has charges no fee for the matching ser- the 21st century, it is important that they its own practices. Moving beyond the been helping sociology departments iden- vice. Departments hosting site visits know there is a place to turn for advice and basic feedback systems of the past, the tify and build upon their strengths since its are expected to cover the DRG consul- consultation. Increased marketing will be program will create a more robust DRG founding in 1995. tants’ travel expenses and provide an aimed at raising awareness of DRG within self-assessment plan that feeds back into Over the past 13 years, the DRG has honorarium. the sociological community. training. conducted more than 200 site visits and For the past year, the more than 50 Training. While DRG consultants In developing these recommendations consultations at colleges and universities sociologist-consultants who comprise the have always received training, the work- the DRG program has used the same across the United States, assisting depart- DRG have been turning the microscope ing groups identified a need for a more assets-based approach that its consultants ments by developing assessment plans, inward to identify the DRG’s own strengths systematic and developmental training use with departments. The basic operating conducting external reviews, negotiat- and opportunities for building on the pro- program. A more formalized training cur- principle of the DRG—let’s work together ing with administrators, and provid- gram’s successes. riculum is being planned to help all DRG to identify the strengths, and make them ing workshops on topics ranging from During the 2007 ASA Annual Meeting, consultants stay abreast of cutting-edge stronger—is now being applied to the capstone courses to conflict management DRG consultants organized themselves issues in higher education as well as to program itself. For more information to the scholarship of teaching and learning. into five working groups, each charged ensure that new DRG consultants have all about the DRG program, contact Margaret ASA matches departments in need with with exploring an area that could enhance the skills they need to assist the depart- Weigers Vitullo, Director, Academic and consultants from similar institutions with and build upon the strengths of the DRG ments they visit. Professional Affairs Program, (202) 383- relevant expertise. DRG members hold a program itself. Tracking. The DRG is highly dispersed, 9005 x323 or [email protected].
American Sociological Association footnotes.asanet.org footnotes • September-October 2008 5
• Working title for the session; Think Ahead to 2010! • Brief description of the substantive Annual Meeting focus; from page 1 Session Proposals Are Invited for the 105th Annual Meeting Program! • Rationale for inclusion of the topic on International Relations the 2010 program; The substantive program for the 2010 gible for nomination. Only ASA members More than 540 international regis- Annual Meeting is now taking shape under may submit nominations; self-nominations • Recommendation(s) for session orga- nizer, including address, telephone, trants representing 51 countries attended the leadership of President-elect Evelyn are not acceptable. the ASA Annual Meeting, with the Nakano Glenn and the 2010 Program Workshops provide the opportunity and e-mail information; and • A list of potential participants. highest representation from Canada, the Committee. The theme of “Toward a to learn about developments in research, United Kingdom, South Korea, Germany, Author Meets Critics Session proposals Sociology of Citizenship” invites participa- theory, teaching, and practice. Topics focus and the Netherlands. Among the inter- must include: tion across the discipline and provides many on careers and professional growth, aca- national attendees was International opportunities to bring together a variety of demic department strategies, research skills • Name and affiliation of book author(s); Sociological Association (ISA) President sociological work in diverse formats. and major datasets, teaching challenges, • Complete title of the book; Michel Wieviorka, who addressed the The spectrum of sessions on the Annual publishing advice and tips, grant oppor- • Publication date and name of attendees of the International Scholars Meeting program reflects the ASA’s com- tunities and grant writing skills, enhanced publisher; Reception. In his informal address, mitment to facilitate intellectual communi- teaching of standard courses, ethical issues, • Brief statement about the book’s impor- Wieviorka advocated for stronger rela- cation and the transmission of knowledge, and more. If you have tried a pedagogical tance to the discipline of sociology; tionships between the ASA and ISA, and information, and skills relevant to the field approach that has been effective, developed • Rationale for inclusion on the 2010 spoke of encouraging the participation of of sociology and aligned social sciences. insightful career advice, or have wisdom to program; and young sociologists and sociologists from Members are encouraged to submit ses- share about using sociology in applied and • Suggestions for critics and session non-Western nations. Wieviorka said sion proposals now for the components of research settings, please volunteer to orga- organizer. that he does not see sociology as being the program where participation is by invi- nize and lead a workshop. Workshops are Workshop proposals must include: in a crisis status, but rather is a central tation only. Those who wish to volunteer to open to all attendees; no fees are involved. • Working title for the session; component of the public debate. serve as organizers for Regular Session top- Didactic Seminars are designed to • Brief description of the focus, goals, and ics, which are open to paper submissions, keep sociologists abreast of recent schol- Going Public with the Press intended audience for the workshop; should watch for an announcement in mid- arly trends and developments. These inten- • Rationale for inclusion of the topic on Speaking of the public debate, 25 December 2008. Proposals of invited panels sive sessions are led by expert instructors the 2010 program; journalists registered for the ASA Annual are solicited for the following components: who are considered to be at the forefront • Recommendation for workshop Meeting—the second highest media Thematic Sessions are specially of a given field. Seminar instructors are organizer/leader, including address, registration after last year’s meeting in designed and planned by the Program urged to prepare reading lists, teaching telephone, and e-mail information; and New York. This year’s attendees included Committee to further examine the meeting materials (e.g., handouts, etc.), and to use • A list of potential co-leaders or panel- reporters from The Boston Globe, ABC theme. These sessions are broad in scope the same sort of techniques they would use ists, if desired. News, Kiplinger, Science magazine, Inside and endeavor to make the theme of the in advanced graduate seminars. If you have Seminar proposals must include: Higher Ed, and The Chronicle of Higher meeting come alive. cutting-edge methodological or theoretical Education. • Working title for the seminar; Special Sessions focus on new areas of knowledge in an important area, or know A variety of research presented at the • Brief description of the focus and sociological work or other timely topics a colleague who has such expertise, please meeting garnered national media cover- content; which may or may not relate to the theme. submit a proposal for a seminar. age. The New York Times’“Well” blog • Rationale for inclusion of the topic on They generally address sociological issues, The ASA meeting is a program of the reported on research concerning male the 2010 program; and whether in research or its application, of members, by the members, for the members. college students and property crime. A • Recommendation for seminar importance to the discipline or of interest But a meeting of this size and scope requires study of the emotional toll of breast cancer instructor, including address, tele- beyond, and participation is by invitation. advance planning. Think ahead for 2010 and was covered in U.S. News & World Report, phone, and e-mail information. Proposals for sessions co-sponsored with propose session topics and organizers now. The Los Angeles Times’ “Booster Shots” Format. All session proposals are sister sociological associations are usually With the collective input of ASA members, blog, and by the syndicated HealthDay limited to two pages in length. Submission accommodated under this component. the 2010 Annual Meeting program will News. Findings on gender and the con- of electronic documents via e-mail is Regional Spotlight Sessions provide achieve a high mark of excellence. sequences of overwork were featured in preferred. opportunities to look at issues pertinent The Washington Post, on CBSNews.com, Guidelines for Session Proposals Organizer Eligibility. All session orga- to the host site for the Annual Meeting. WebMD, and United Press International nizers must be members of ASA. Students With Atlanta as the site of the 2010 Annual Proposals for Thematic Sessions, (UPI). WebMD and HealthDay News cov- are not eligible to serve as sole organizers. Meeting, there are many opportunities Special Sessions, and Regional Spotlight ered research on family type and parental Deadlines. Proposals for Thematic to develop interesting session topics with Sessions should provide: involvement and a study of homeowner- Sessions are due by November 14, 2008. invited panelists, as well as ideas for local • Designation of the session type: ship and political involvement also was Proposals for other sessions are due by tours and site visits. – Thematic Session (invited panel covered by UPI. February 5, 2009. Author Meets Critic Sessions are closely related to the meeting theme); Seven articles were published in the Submission. Send proposals to designed to bring authors of recent books – Special Session (invited panel on any higher education trade press during the Kareem Jenkins, American Sociological deemed to be important contributions to topic); or meeting, and additional stories and follow- Association, 1430 K St. NW, Suite 600, the discipline together with discussants – Regional Spotlight Session (invited up are anticipated. For example, Inside Washington, DC 20005-2529, USA; meet- chosen to provide different viewpoints. panel on topic pertinent to Atlanta Higher Ed covered discussions from the [email protected]; fax (202) 638-0882. Books published during 2007-2009 are eli- and/or the South); Annual Meeting surrounding the relation- ship between criminology and sociol- 2010 ASA Annual Meeting Theme • How are social institutions (e.g., family, ogy, research regarding the recruitment labor market, religion), in addition to of women for science faculty jobs, ASA Toward a Sociology of Citizenship the state, implicated in defining the research findings on the job satisfaction 105th ASA Annual Meeting static bundle of rights, and (2) Viewing the boundaries of citizenship and in recog- of academic scientists, research on the August 14-17, 2010 ambit of citizenship as limited to the nation nizing (or rejecting) rights? culture gap between administrators and Atlanta, Georgia state. Instead, we view citizenship as a fluid • How are status categories (e.g., gender, faculty members, and a study of the wealth Hilton Atlanta and Atlanta Marriott Marquis and contested domain, operating in multiple age, race) and affiliations (e.g., religion, advantages and lack of diversity among language, culture) used to define differ- legacy admits at Duke University. And The t its most general level, citizenship overlapping communities, within and across nation states. ent levels or degrees of citizenship? Chronicle of Higher Education covered a Arefers to full membership in a com- • How have major demographic, eco- discussion of the peer review process and munity in which one lives, works, or was The theme of the 2010 ASA meetings is intended to stimulate development of socio- nomic, technological, and social trends research on overwork and gender. born. From a sociological perspective, two (e.g., transnational migration, ethnic and logical approaches to a comparative trans- Looking Ahead central and linked questions arise in rela- racial diversity, and conflict within nation tion to “membership”: national study of citizenship. The theme can be explored from the perspective of many states, reliance of some third-world With the success of the 2008 Annual 1. What practices and processes define economies on remittances from emi- Meeting behind us, we look ahead to the which individuals or groups are areas of specialization in sociology, includ- ing family, immigration, labor, collective grants, use of the internet for information 2009 meeting in San Francisco, August identified as competent members of a and maintenance of social ties) changed 8-11. Under the guidance of ASA’s new community? movements, criminology, political sociol- ogy, and religion, by asking, for example: the meaning or relevance of citizenship? president, Patricia Hill Collins, and the 2. What practices do individuals and • How has the growth of supra-national 2009 Program Committee, the 104th groups adopt to establish claims to • How is citizenship distinct among vari- ous sociological forms of membership, entities (e.g., international human rights Annual Meeting will explore “The New membership in a community? regimes, global banking and financial Politics of Community.” The Call for Carefully analyzing such social practices and how does a formal institutionaliza- tion of rights interact with informal systems, and multi-national corpora- Papers, will be posted on the ASA website and processes can help us overcome two tions) affected the role or significance October 30, and the online paper submis- tendencies that limit our understanding structures of participation, claims- making, and feelings of belonging? of citizenship in sub-national, national, sion site will open on December 1. See you of citizenship: (1) Viewing citizenship as a and supranational communities? in San Francisco! footnotes.asanet.org American Sociological Association 6 footnotes • September-October 2008
would choose for president, senator, governor, and newsworthy statewide proposi- Sociologists in Research and tions. It is Edison Media Research’s goal to provide political coverage that reveals the demographic breakdown by age, gender, education, ethnicity, and political identity. Applied Settings McCutcheon was pleasantly surprised when offered the chance to work behind the exit-polling scenes. “I was shocked when Joe asked me to work with him on this year’s his occasional column focuses on the interesting career paths and achievements of elections,” he said, “but was delighted to do it.” And it hasn’t always been easy. “Anytime Tsociologists whose primary work in sociology is not in the academy or whose “extra- you try to project data on an election, there are just so many things you wouldn’t curricular” work outside academic settings is noteworthy for its societal or policy impact. expect.” This also reminded McCutcheon of what it is like being an academic and differ- These sociologists are engaged directly with the public, applying methods of science and ences between being in the classroom and at the polls. “When working on an article or their sociological expertise. a research piece as an academic, you can think, ‘I can get to it tomorrow,’” he said. “But outside in the ‘real world,’ many things must get done right now.” And the hardest part of the job? “There are many things,” said McCutcheon. “I’m Election USA - 2008 . . . the new person at this and I’m still learning. It’s like I spent 25 years teaching the theory about bicycle riding and now I’m actually riding a bicycle.” Getting It Right When Polling at the Exits Close Race Challenges By Daniel Spar, ASA Governance, Sections, and Archives Edison Media Research has also made concerted attempts to make this year’s exit- polling more accurate than in years past. “The biggest challenge came early in the pri- ith the current U.S. national election garnering extraordinary attention, it is mary cycle when the contests in both parties were still competitive,” said McCutcheon. Wimportant that the media coverage be as accurate as possible. This “This is the first time in a long time that exit polls have been used to help is where sociologist Allan McCutcheon, founding Chair of the Survey call competitive primary races for both parties. We had to figure out a Research and Methodology Graduate Program and Professor of Statistics method to use the incoming exit poll results to account for the different and Sociology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, comes in. This past mixes of Democrats and Republicans at each of the polling precincts.” year, he has been working to oversee the predictions and exit-polling in Asked if there were any sociological trends he had seen and not antici- the 2008 presidential primaries and the 2008 general election under the pated, McCutcheon was ready with the answer. “The one thing that no auspices of Edison Media Research. This is a unique, career-affecting one anticipated was the size of turnout on the democratic side,” he said. opportunity for McCutcheon. “People are energized. We’re seeing very impressive rates of voting.” He “Most of what I’m going to be doing is helping to improve the sta- also stated that the sociological insight is helpful for providing the best tistical models to create the most accurate projections possible,” said polling possible. “I think being a social scientist—while of course being McCutcheon. “I can’t imagine anything more exciting than being able to good with numbers and comfortable with statistics—is invaluable. It’s participate in democracy this way, to apply my survey skills in projecting elections on the ability to anticipate and know what types of patterns will emerge that truly makes a election night.” difference.” The Right Man Trends And it is no wonder that Joe Lenski, Executive President of Edison Media Research, McCutcheon also mentioned some trends among individual groups. “While there chose McCutcheon to work along his side. A Fullbright Scholar, past-president of appears to be a much higher-than-usual interest among most Americans in the prima- the Midwest Association for Public Opinion Research (MAPOR), a Fellow of the ries this year—probably due to the competitiveness of the races in both parties—we American Statistical Association, and a founding director of the Gallup Research have seen exceptionally high levels of interest and participation among young voters Center, McCutcheon has both the background and experience necessary to under- and African-American voters,” he said. “Having a leading African-American candidate stand the significance and requirements of the job. “I’ve done survey research all of my has clearly helped energize African-American voters, just as having a leading woman academic life,” said McCutcheon, “and I am thrilled to be able to apply this academic candidate has energized many women voters, though women have, historically, had background to such an important real-world process in American democracy.” very high levels of participation. As for young voters, we may be witnessing a shift in Edison Media Research, along with the National Election Pool, is commissioned by political participation not unlike what we saw in the 1960s.” all major news networks (i.e., NBC, ABC, CBS, Associated Press, CNN, and FOX) for McCutcheon, thrilled with his experience with Edison Media Research, looks obtaining and analyzing exit-polling results. Each network and news affiliate agreed forward to getting back to the University of Nebraska and his students. “I have all the to use the election pool for consistency and accuracy. Back in 2004, Edison Media intention of going back to the classroom and working with doctoral students,” he said. Research and Mitofsky International conducted the exit polls for the general election “I really enjoy that.” in all 50 states on November 2. These surveys provided Edison Media Research and For more information on Edison Media Research and exit-polling, visit
and London in the United Kingdom. Her her career she has reframed many of the their lives in the past—challenging the Collins journey has taken her into many communi- major assumptions, demonstrating how sociological thinking that rendered them from page 1 ties, helping her think about connections dominant thought is typically reflective invisible, making them witnesses but not Award. among different communities and what it of power relationships; she has helped us analysts of their own lives. The clarity of In 1982, the Collins family relocated means to cross race, class, gender, regional, all understand the counter narratives held her discussion of power, including how to Cincinnati, where Roger taught in the and international borders. within more subordinated communities. oppressed people understand the power School of Education at the University of In 1990 Collins published Black that engulfs them and develop alternative The Work Cincinnati. Patricia joined him at that Feminist Thought: Knowledge, self-definitions of themselves and their institution in the Department of African Many people learned about Patricia Hill Consciousness, and the Politics of situations, has turned the tide of theoreti- American Studies. This department would Collins when her groundbreaking article, Empowerment, which won ASA’s Jessie cal analysis. In sharing the voices of Black be her home base for 23 years where she “Learning from the Outsider Within,” was Bernard Award, the SSSP C. Wright Mills women, Collins exposed many scholars to also served as Chair from 1999-2002. published in Social Problems in 1986. The Award, and garnered other awards from a literature and history that was new. Working in African American Studies article articulated a standpoint reflecting the Association of Women in Psychology In 2000, Collins published the 10th gave Patricia the intellectual space to her race, gender, and social class location and Black Women Historians. Collins has anniversary edition of Black Feminist question the boxes that people generally as she moved across and within vari- pushed scholars to identify the ground Thought, incorporating new work and use to frame issues within disciplinary ous institutions. A consistent theme in on which they stand, rather than claim- more forcefully sharing with readers the fields. She also developed links between Collins’s work is how she questions the ing neutral space. Black Feminist Thought idea that people who lack power have a Women’s Studies and Sociology, where in traditional framing of issues. When I met clearly identifies an intersectional analysis, viewpoint very different from the master 1996 she became the Charles Phelps Taft her at a curriculum integration workshop rather than a hierarchical formula where narrative. She also incorporated a more Distinguished Professor of Sociology, now in 1985, she spoke about how the national race is primary over gender or where social comprehensive analysis of sexuality in her Emeritus. framing of “the Black family” as a prob- class trumps all. Her theoretical analysis intersectional analysis and took a more In 2005, Patricia Hill Collins joined lem was problematic because it neglected shows how oppression operates in various international perspective. Between the two the University of Maryland where she was an understanding of families within the spheres—political, economic, and ideologi- editions of Black Feminist Thought Pat pub- the Wilson Elkins Professor of Sociology wider context of oppression and resistance. cal. Thus, although we can appreciate that lished Fighting Words: Black Women and 2005-2006 and is currently Distinguished She talked with us about how many of social class may offer some protection or the Struggle for Justice (1998) tracking her University Professor. In her new location, her students entered classrooms believ- resources to battle the sexism and racism thinking about empowerment and social she is working with graduate students in ing these myths. Teaching students to that Black women experience, achiev- justice. Throughout, Collins has been a race, feminist scholarship, and sociological think differently was a challenge, but she ing middle class status does not remove major voice as a public sociologist. theory. Over the years, Patricia has devel- thought the key was to provide students one from the political, economic, and An important collaboration for Collins oped many international connections, with a framework that integrated broader ideological operations. Most importantly, is her work with Margaret L. Andersen. spending time in Durban, South Africa; social forces into an understanding of the Black Feminist Thoughtilluminated how The two developedRace, Class and Gender: Berlin, Germany; Oslo, Norway; and Bristol tasks and resources of any family. Over Black women have looked at and analyzed See Collins, page 7 American Sociological Association footnotes.asanet.org footnotes • September-October 2008 7
has taken toward applied sociologists who will be able to use ASA more effectively for The ASA and Sociological Practice are not in universities or funding agen- networking, keeping current with research, cies. They call on us to provide them with and helping shape the organization and ASA’s historical roots in applied sociology and proposal for the future expertise on rare occasions and do not profession to their interests. Conversely, think of us at other times. For example, this benefits the ASA and the profession by Jay Weinstein, Eastern Michigan profession has occurred in organizations when it is time to put together expert University, and Kathryn Goldman Schuyler, such as the Association for Applied and delegations to go to Washington to help by making it worthwhile for practicing Alliant International University Clinical Sociology (AACS), its predeces- agencies or Congress set agendas, those sociologists to be actively connected to sor organizations: the Society for Applied of us not in universities simply do not get the discipline. The profession can grow by ince its founding, the American Sociology (SAS), the Sociological Practice thought of. Instead, they invite academics nourishing action-oriented professionals SSociological Association has endeav- Association (SPA), and the Clinical with far smaller publication records in the as well as researchers. ored to make its potential publics aware Sociology Association (CSA), and the subject fields to do these tasks. There is References of what the discipline can contribute to Commission on Applied and Clinical very little of substantive interest to me at the meetings or in the journals. the improvement of the human condition. Sociology (CACS, of which Perlstadt was Breese, Jeffrey and Jay Weinstein. 2006. The The ASA’s first president was the avowed founding Chair). At the 2007 ASA Meeting, the SP Directory of Programs in Applied Sociology applied sociologist, Lester Frank Ward, As a growing proportion of sociology Section agreed to address these concerns and Practice, 4th ed. Washington, DC: and several of its early leaders promoted graduates are employed outside of aca- and to develop proposals for “bringing American Sociological Association. this original version of public sociology. deme, the time has come to re-examine professionals in from the cold,” as Spalter- Mills, C. Wright. 1964. Sociology and The formation of the first Department of the commitment of the practitioner to Roth put it. Lawton summarized the Pragmatism: The Higher Learning in America New York: Oxford University Sociology and the creation of the field’s the ASA, as well as of the ASA to the initiative: A program should be created Press. first U.S. journal at the University of practitioner. Roberta Spalter-Roth’s recent to “redefine ASA as the association where Perlstadt, Harry. 2006 “Applied Sociology.” Chicago were substantially influenced by study of sociologists in non-academic any and all sociologists could find value. Chapter 39 in Handbook of 21st Century the pragmatist movement in philosophy settings (Spalter-Roth 2007) provides an That means making it known as a place Sociology. Vol. 2, edited by C.D. Bryant and by the work of John Dewey, in particu- important baseline for understanding the for non-academic training, for helping sections present research about policy, not and D.L. Peck., Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage lar. Dewey urged educators to contribute to demographic characteristics, resource Publications. the creation of publics: groups of informed needs, and the sources of satisfaction and just peer-reviewed research, and perhaps even a journal about social policy design, Rhoades, Lawrence J. 1981. A History of citizens who can participate meaningfully dissatisfaction among contemporary soci- the ASA: 1905-1980. Washington, DC: evaluation and meta-reviews.” in the democratic process. As C. Wright ologists employed in applied and policy American Sociological Association. Following a year of conference calls, Mills noted, this injunction became a key settings. (www2.asanet.org/about/history/index. e-mail exchanges, and informal discus- component of the professional culture for A closer and more mutually support- html). the first generation of ASA members and ive relationship has been forged between sions, the following recommendations Spalter-Roth, Roberta. 2007. “Sociologists officers (Mills 1964). the ASA and AACS than at any time in emerged: in Research, Applied, and Policy Settings: Although a commitment to the prin- the past. The Directory of Programs in • The ASA should work more directly, Bringing Professionals in from the Cold.” ciples of sociological practice is lodged Applied Sociology and Practice (Breese and possibly establish formal relation- Journal of Applied Social Science 1, 2:4-18. deeply in the foundations of the ASA and and Weinstein 2006) lists 27 college and ships, with CACS on program accredi- 1We employ the term “sociological practice” is incorporated into its bylaws, the record university departments that offer degree tation and with AACS on certification here to refer to an approach that incor- is less clear with regard to the organiza- specializations in sociological practice, sev- of practicing sociologists. porates “applied,” “clinical,” and “public” tion’s provision of resources and status eral of which have been accredited or are • ASA meetings should include more sociology. The ASA has established some- to the sociological practitioner, in com- under accreditation review by the CACS. professional workshops, especially thing of a standard in this regard by incor- parison to the researcher and teacher. As And AACS has renewed the program, those organized by practitioners. As porating an official section on Sociological Lawrence Rhoades (1981) noted in his initiated by SPA, to provide certification Lawton observes, “Over the years . . . Practice (SP) that includes members who history of the ASA: As the organization for sociological practitioners. there have been more methodological prefer one or more of these other labels and was just renamed the Section on grew and matured, public outreach and Practitioners are in a strong position to and applied career-oriented work- Sociological Practice and Public Sociology. sociological practice were treated some- help promote more effective application shops. These are the kinds of events The ASA thereby recognizes—and has rec- what ambiguously. of the field. They can be of great service to that make attendance justifiable…. ognized for some time—a legitimate role Harry Perlstadt’s recent discussion the ASA in this cause, and the ASA can be Making it really successful means pro- for the application of sociological theory, (Perlstadt 2006) provides valuable ref- of great service to them to the extent that moting it locally, which might mean reaching out to government agencies, research methods, and research findings erences on the history of sociological we can renew the organization’s founding in addressing practical problems that practice. This history includes several commitment to sociological practice. non-profits, and others.” • Presentations at all sessions at ASA meet- emerge in the community, government, ASA-supported initiatives intended to Many practitioners view the ASA as less and industry. elevate the status of practitioners and their than supportive of their interests. Leora ings that are application oriented should work, including creation of a Section on Lawton, President of TechSociety Research be shared with the SP Section and noted Jay Weinstein, Eastern Michigan University, Sociological Practice (SP) in 1979; the cre- and former Chair of the ASA SP Section as such in the Annual Meeting program. has participated extensively in applied ation of an ASA Committee on Professional notes, “I’ve often met PhD sociologists Certain sections should be required to research projects in the United States and Opportunities in Applied Sociology in who aren’t members of the ASA. The image include policy or application-oriented several other countries. He is President of the 1981; publication of the Sociological Practice is that the ASA is only for academics and presentations each year. North Central Sociological Association. He Review, beginning in 1990; and the creation that it’s largely irrelevant to their work.” • Practitioners should be encouraged has also served as Chair of the ASA Council in 1991 of the Sydney S. Spivak Program in In contrast, “When applied sociologists to run for ASA Council, possibly on Sociological Practice and President of the Applied Social Research and Social Policy, attend meetings related to their field of through designated offices. Society for Applied Sociology. which supports the ASA Congressional employment, they network with colleagues • Practitioners should be included in, Kathryn Goldman Schuyler is Chair of the Fellowship. and get up-to-date on research about their and play a prominent role on, ASA Section on Sociological Practice. She has Yet, as Perlstadt documents, many areas of work, which are very often aspects curriculum and teaching task forces. been an organizational consultant for over of these initiatives—including the of policy development or evaluation, or One recommendation has already 20 years and is an Associate Professor in the Sociological Practice Review—proved business-related research.” been accepted: The SP Section is now the Marshall Goldsmith School of Management to be short lived, or somehow failed to A PhD sociologist who works for an Section on Sociological Practice and Public at Alliant International University. Her become permanent parts of the institu- agency specializing in issues of substance Sociology. consulting practice has focused on execu- tional framework. Instead, most of the abuse expressed even stronger views: To the extent that these and related pro- tive team development, culture change, and work to promote sociological practice as a I am disgusted with the approach ASA posals can be implemented, practitioners organizational learning.
the importance of looking across borders ASA Distinguished Publication Award. ASA Annual Meeting, Collins invites us to Collins to view racism on a global scale. In this Patricia Hill Collins’ trajectory of reframe the concept of community for the from page 6 exploration of the historical and contem- scholarship has been attentive to commu- 21st century. Through her path, we see how porary circumstances of African American nity building and institutional change on Collins moves among multiple communi- An Anthology (soon to be in its 7th edition). men and women, she brings a wealth of other fronts, as well. A long-time resident of ties to be an outsider to some and an insider This pioneering volume, first published in material from history, empirical research, Cincinnati, Collins was involved with com- within others. Collins sees the task of con- 1992, has been a critical teaching tool for an cultural studies, and keen observations munity groups that support educational and structing democratic communities, whether intersectional analysis. Its various editions of social, cultural, and political events. cultural programs for girls and women. As a across space, between generations, or across showcase new scholarship, but the thoughtful Shards of the old racism of segregation and former ASA Minority Fellowship recipient, categories of race, class, and gender as a core introductory essays have also been critical in exclusion are part of the racism of the 21st she has served on the ASA committee that political challenge of our times. By weaving teaching faculty and students a framework century, as the legacy impacts intergen- oversees that program, two years as chair a network of family, friends, and colleagues, for understanding intersecting inequalities. erational mobility or lack of it. However, (1985-88), as well as the ASA Task Force she aspires to generate communities that In Black Sexual Politics: African the increased concentration of wealth and (1989-93) that first created the Minority nurture her, as well as help to engender Americans, Gender and the New Racism power has a global reach influencing the Opportunity Summer Training (MOST). communities that support the development (2004) Collins has more fully integrated images and options of racialized and gen- In setting “The New Politics of of scholarship framed by a commitment to sexuality in to her analysis and we see dered bodies. This book earned the 2007 Community” as the theme for the 104th social justice. footnotes.asanet.org American Sociological Association 8 footnotes • September-October 2008
that shying away from it is an untenable position. Unlike other disciplines, sociology PUBLIC SOCIOLOGY is still groping for a language in which to address torture meaningfully. Should torture be approached as a problem for liberalism?1 Should it be addressed as a special case of Sociology translates to public action . . . violence, as we sometimes do?2 Clearly, torture is a conundrum for liberal democra- cies, as torture is a violent act. Yet, the focus on democracy or violence as a starting his occasional column highlights sociologists who successfully engage sociology in the point shifts the emphasis away from the complexity of what constitutes torture. There Tcivic arena in service to organizations and communities. Over the years, members is a surplus of meaning to the act of torture when it occurs at the behest of the state, of ASA and sociologists as individual professionals and citizens have sought to make the in violation of the law, and for reasons that transcend its official purpose—namely the knowledge we generate directly relevant to our communities, countries, and the world gathering of intelligence. community. Many sociologists within the academy and in other sectors practice the I found it useful to think of torture as occurring in two overlapping contexts. translation of expert knowledge to numerous critical issues through consultation, advise- Torture unfolds in a social, psychological, cultural, political or geopolitical, and ment, testimony, commentary, writing, and participation in a variety of activities and juridical situation. Furthermore, torturer and the tortured face each other as individu- venues. Readers are invited to submit contributions, but consult with Managing Editor als embedded in different histories, belief systems, value orientations, and political Johanna Olexy ([email protected], 202-383-9005 x312) prior to submitting your draft commitments that give the torture situation its texture and lethal potential. Torture (1,000 to 1,200 words maximum). is a “total social phenomenon,” in the manner that Marcel Mauss defined the gift- exchange.3 Torture presented me with an epistemic as well as a moral challenge. (Even Torture, War, and Sociology advocates of torture feel obligated to ritually condemn it first.) As I started writ- ing, I repressed the temptation to theorize torture, not only because I feared by Marnia Lazreg, City University of New York-Hunter College legitimizing it4 but also because doing so would reify it, anoint it with a scientific cover, and uncouple it from the pain, humiliation, and degradation that constitute ecent debates about the permissibility of torture, and the steady stream of revela- its core. Rtions about its authorized but secret uses propelled my research on torture into The research I carried out resulted in the publication of my book,Torture and the the public realm. My experience indicates that public sociology, in addition to being Twilight of Empire: From Algiers to Baghdad. The book provides a context in which to immensely necessary in times of political crises, has a understand the state’s use of torture as an “antidote to cross-cultural dimension. terrorism”5 and a (needed) comparative perspective My research began in Algeria, in the late 1990s, as on current debates on torture. I found that torture in an attempt to understand the extreme violence that wars of occupation is a strategic imperative grounded a fractious Islamist movement as well as the Army in a counter-insurgency theory (guerre révolution- used against the population during the civil war naire). In Algeria, there was a military doctrine (1992-2002). I was fortunate enough to interview formulated by French officers (and taught to the CIA two regional Islamist leaders, and was even luckier and in U.S. military schools in the 1960s), in which when I was able to speak for two hours with a defec- the occupied population is used as a war front. My tor from a radical faction of the movement who had research also found: Torture fulfills functions that sur- been made to witness the torture of other men as a pass the need for intelligence, including psychological deterrent to betrayal. I noticed that my respondents (especially brainwashing), political, and ideologi- Reproduction of Roberto Matta Echaurren’s 1946 oil-on-canvas, titled found it easier to answer questions about “violence” Être Avec (Being With) cal functions. When condoned by the state, torture than about “torture.” I was mulling this over when in becomes routinized, which leads to the dehumaniza- 2001, as I walked by a bookstore window in Algiers, tion of the native population and the over-valuation two books displayed side by side caught my attention: One was by a former French of the culture of the occupying power. Torture is not reducible to one technique or general, Paul Aussaresses, who confessed to the torture of numerous Algerians during another nor is it the sum of its parts. State justifications of torture rest on the activation the war (1954-62); the other by a woman, Louisa Ighilahriz, a member of the national- of religious sentiment and exaltation of national identity. Intellectuals’ justifications of ist movement (Front de Libération Nationale) whom paratroopers had subjected to torture are grounded in fiction used as tropes for sustaining fear of the unknown. torture and rape for nearly 11 weeks in 1957 after capturing her. The juxtaposition of Out in the World these books had a historic and symbolic significance in a city famous for its clandestine torture centers in the 1950s. Since the book’s publication, I have appeared on 30 local and regional radio shows From Algiers I traveled to Paris where I became acquainted with a series of new as well as on nationally syndicated radio programs. I have answered queries by con- publications on torture, among them expensive reviews with glossy war pictures of cerned people. Radio hosts often invited other guests to join in, thus enabling me to Algerians in torture poses. This packaging of torture and war—a trope for objectifying “meet” like-minded scholars and playwrights. I have spoken to a wide array of audi- torture without coming to terms with it—served as another warning of the myriad of ences and discovered a real public hunger for an interpretative framework that pulls problems that lay ahead as I was about to focus my research on torture. I realized that together the disparate pieces of news about torture and the war in Iraq. Speaking in the the civil war violence in which I was initially interested was part of a broader histori- media has helped refine and expand my views. In addition, I have been asked to write cal configuration where imperial and post-imperial politics loomed large. I doubted an affidavit on individuals threatened with deportation to countries where torture is whether describing torture’s methods, identifying the services that fostered it, nam- widespread. I will continue to engage in public debates and plan to write a brief on ing those who ordered it—important as they were—satisfactorily addressed the larger torture for the future democratic nominee. I also hope to start a network of sociolo- issue of why torture became systematic in the declining French colonial state in spite of gists against the war and torture. its legal prohibition, and reared its head again in post-independence Algeria. References Depressing or Fascinating Subject? 1 Lukes, Steven. 2006. “Liberal Democratic Torture.” British Journal of Political I decided to focus on torture as a critical category of analysis through which to Science 36(1):1-16. understand the interface between power, national identity, and imperial ideology. 2 Collins, Randall. 1974. “Three Faces of Cruelty: Towards a Comparative Sociology Thus began a journey that took me to military archives at Vincennes and a number of Violence.” Theory and Society 1(4):415-440. of research libraries. I supplemented archive materials with diaries written by former 3 Mauss, Marcel. 1967. The Gift. New York: Norton. soldiers, confessions to torture, and interviews with, as well as accounts written by, 4 Zizek, Slavoj. 2002. Welcome to the Desert of the Real. London and New York: Verso. victims of torture. 5 Trinquier, Colonel Roger. 1968. Guerre, Subversion, Révolution. Paris: Robert On occasion, at conferences, a participant would approach me and suggest how Laffont, p. 70. English translation by Daniel Lee. 1985.Modern Warfare: A French “depressing” it must be for me to work on torture. It is true that accounts of torture are View of Counterinsurgency. Fort Leavenworth, Kansas: U.S. Army Command and not enjoyable. However, as torture has entered public debates, it is increasingly evident General Staff College, Combat Studies Institute Press.
and foundations) to advance basic ing toward a more societal-level orienta- tionalize social-structural interventions to AIDS and applied social research on AIDS tion for a host of reasons, including the maximize uptake of effective therapeutic from page 4 (the Social Science Research Council recognition that even when efficacious and preventive tools, and, even more • Significant funding streams for attempted to do this but got very little biomedical or behavioral interventions importantly, to address the social forces social research—both basic and interest from funders); and are developed, their impact at a popula- that fuel the epidemic and create the need intervention studies—with peer • Cross-training in bio-psycho-social tion level depends on people’s access, for such tools in the first place. review by true peers (i.e., those with science at the graduate level, to facili- acceptability, and use under real-world * Judith D. Auerbach, is Deputy Executive expertise in social science, not epi- tate the development of multi-dimen- conditions that are highly influenced Director for Science and Public Policy at demiology, psychology, or clinical sional theories, models, and methods (if not determined) by social forces and the San Francisco AIDS Foundation. From research); to address the multi-dimensional structures. Given this trend, it is impera- 1995 to 2003, she served as Director of the • Concerted initiatives (e.g., by social nature of AIDS. tive that more sociologists engage in Behavioral and Social Science Program in science professional associations The field of HIV/AIDS is finally -mov AIDS research to help define and opera- the NIH Office of AIDS Research.
American Sociological Association footnotes.asanet.org footnotes • September-October 2008 9 Applications Invited for Editorship American Sociological Review, Sociological Methodology, Sociological Theory, Sociology of Education, and Teaching Sociology
pplications are invited for the editor- and human social development. Research The time demands associated with these should be done only after an editor is Aship of American Sociological Review, articles in SOE examine how social institu- responsibilities vary from week to week, but selected. Sociological Methodology, Sociological tions and individuals’ experiences within in general, require one full day per week. 3. Institutional Support: It is important Theory, Sociology of Education, and these institutions affect educational pro- ASA encourages applications for both for candidates to consider and address Teaching Sociology. cesses and social development. sole editorship and co-editorships. the feasibility of serving as editor in The official terms for the new editors Teaching Sociology (TS) publishes light of the resources ASA can provide Selection Process (or co-editors) will commence in January articles, notes, and reviews intended to be and those likely to be available to the 2010 (the editorial transition will start in helpful to the discipline’s teachers. Articles Applications will be reviewed by the candidate. The ASA does not pay for summer 2009) and is for a minimum of range from experimental studies of Committee on Publications in December office space or release time, but pro- three years (until December 2012) with a teaching and learning to broad, synthetic 2008. It is possible that prospective editors vides basic financial support for office possible reappointment of up to an addi- essays on pedagogically important issues. may be contacted to clarify any issues resources as necessary to journal edi- tional three years. Notes focus on specific teaching issues or raised in the deliberations. A list (which tors. This support may include funds The American Sociological Review techniques. Published quarterly, it includes may be ranked or unranked) will be for clerical assistance, office sup- (ASR) is the flagship journal of the full-length articles; notes of 10 pages or forwarded to ASA Council for review in plies, postage, and telephone beyond American Sociological Association (ASA) less; interviews, review essays; reviews of early 2009. The Council appoints the edi- what will be provided by the editor’s and is published six times annually. ASA books, films, videos, and software; and tors. The editors are contacted by the ASA home institution. Since the support founded ASR in 1936 to publish original conversations. Secretary. offered by different institutions varies works of interest to the sociology discipline The application packet should include: widely, you are encouraged to contact Qualifications in general, new theoretical developments, 1. Vision Statement: Set forth your goals the Executive Office as necessary to results of research that advance our under- Candidates must be members of the and plans for the content of the jour- ensure the feasibility of your applica- standing of fundamental social processes, ASA and hold a tenured position or equiv- nal. This may include an assessment of tion. At this point in the submission and important methodological innova- alent in an academic or non-academic the current strengths, weaknesses, or process, letters of support from deans tions. All areas of sociology are welcomed; setting. Applications from members of gaps that you plan to address and how or other appropriate institutional the emphasis is on exceptional quality and underrepresented groups are encouraged. you will operationalize your plan. officials are recommended but not general interest. In accordance with ASA’s mission to 2. Editor/Co-Editor Background required. Specific arrangements with Sociological Methodology (SM), pub- publish high quality scholarship, the fol- Information: The name, affiliation, a potential new editor and with that lished annually in hardcover book format, lowing criteria are considered in selecting and other important information individual and his or her institution publishes important methodological editors: about the potential editor and, if appli- will occur during the period after the papers of interest to the entire field of soci- 1. An established record of scholarship; cable, co-editors is required. Describe ASA Council makes a selection and ology. Its articles address the full range of 2. Evidence of understanding the mis- the qualifications of each person that the ASA Secretary, with support from problems confronted by empirical research sion of the journal/series and its supports their inclusion. Evidence of the ASA Executive Officer, works in the social sciences, including conceptu- operation, indicated by experience the ability and experience of the editor out the final agreement with this alization and modeling, research design, with the journal/series across any of a and editorial team to provide sound candidate. data collection, measurement, qualitative wide variety of activities (submission, judgment and guidance to potential Examples of successful past propos- analysis, and quantitative data analysis. reviewing, editorial board experience); ASA authors is central to the applica- als are available on the journals page of Sociological Theory(ST) , published 3. Assessment of the present state of the tion. Provide a clear description of the ASA website
announcements
Marriage and Family Review announces Social Science History, the official journal or Commodity, Public or Private?” Papers November 6-9, 2008. Association for Corrections a special issue concerned with the of the Social Science History Associa- pertaining to collective memory, socio- Humanist Sociology 2008 Annual Meeting, In the “ASA Hosts Open House to Debut demography of marriages and families. tion, is soliciting article submissions for political issues pertaining to “commodity Boston, MA. Theme: “What Is to Be Done? New Office” in the July/August 2008 We seek a range of papers that examine future issues. Social Science History seeks memory” such as electronic dataveil- Public Sociology in Politics and Practice.” Footnotes, the citation about the Best the demographic transitions of the family to advance the study of the past by lance, video surveillance; seed, sperm For more information, visit
American Sociological Association footnotes.asanet.org footnotes • September-October 2008 11
announcements
Center for the Study of Law and Society, October 1, 2008. For more information, Newsday about single older women and Community and Urban Jack Levin, Northeastern University, was University of California-Berkeley, CA visit
announcements
Jerome Hodos, Franklin & Marshall Diana Pearce, University of Washing- in a July 2 Wall Street Journal article about Medical Sociology Peace, War & Social Conflict University, Andrea Siegel, City University ton, had her research cited in a June 18 trends among married couples. Amato’s of New York, and Black Hawk Hancock, Philadelphia Inquirer article about cost of research was also cited in a July 6 Gan- Corey Keyes, Emory University, was Morten Ender, U.S. Military Academy, DePaul University, were quoted in a July living. Pearce developed the Self-Suffi- nett News Service article that appeared quoted in a July 16 Atlanta Journal- was quoted in a July 2 USA Today article 14 article about the decline in neckties in ciency Standard for Pennsylvania report in newspapers across the country. Constitution article about meditation and about welcoming home troops from the Lancaster New Era. on behalf of PathWays PA. health. Keyes offered tips for maintaining the Iraq War. Ender said that there is a Sampson Lee Blair, University at Buffalo, mental and physical health. renewed national appreciation for those R. Kelly Raley, University of Texas-Austin, Tim Slack, Louisiana State University, was quoted in the June 15 cover story of who serve. He was also quoted in a July Bernice A. Pescosolido, Indiana Uni- was quoted about cohabitation and mar- was quoted in a June 9 New York Times the New York Times Magazine about equal 17 Washington Post story about the strain versity, was interviewed for Profiles, a riage trends in a June 9 USA Today article article about the impact of gas prices in parenting. Blair studies the division of military deployments put on children program broadcast on WFIU-FM, the Na- that described a report by The National rural America. Slack, who studies rural labor in families. and families. Marriage Project. poverty, asserted that higher gas prices tional Public Radio affiliate in Blooming- Christine Carter, University of California- might make working less the economi- ton, IN, on May 27. Pescosolido discussed Marc Sageman, New York Police Depart- Karen Sternheimer, University of Berkeley, was quoted in an article about cally rational choice for some. her research on the role of sociological ment, was one of the subjects of a June 8 Southern California, discussed America’s raising a happy child in the May issue factors in health care services, stigma article in the New York Times about differ- fascination with celebrities in a July Gregory D. Squires, George Washington of American Baby magazine. The article associated with people who have mental ing viewpoints on terrorism. Sageman is 20 Abilene Reporter-News article about University, was quoted in the Washington also appeared on MSN.com and Parents. illnesses, and suicide. the author of Leaderless Jihad. Sageman celebrities and divorce. Post’s “Department of Human Behavior” com. Carter was also quoted about the was also profiled in an article from the column about subprime mortgages increasing demand for overnight nannies Organizations, Occupations & July 19 issue of Newsweek. Economic Sociology and race. Squires’ research found that in a July 13 New York Times article. Work subprime loans were more likely to be Patricia Drentea, University of Alabama- Annette Lareau, University of Pennsyl- Youngjoo Cha, Cornell University, was Political Sociology concentrated in areas with higher levels Birmingham, was quoted in a June 9 vania, had her research cited in a July 31 quoted about her research on work Monte Bute, Metropolitan State Univer- of racial segregation. The column also Associated Press story about the health posting on the New York Times’ “Domestic hours and gender in August 1 coverage sity, authored an opinion piece for the cited the December 2007 Social Forces impact of debt. The article appeared in Disturbances” blog. The post concerned on CBSNews.com, Telegraph.co.uk (the July 14 St. Paul Pioneer Press about Barack article by Carolyn Bond, West Chester news outlets across the United States the “affluenza” epidemic striking Ameri- website for the Daily Telegraph), and Obama, religion, and the “Party of Irony.” University, and Richard Williams, Uni- and Canada. cans. MSN.com, among others. Cha presented versity of Notre Dame, titled “Residential Anthony P. Browne, The City University this research at the 2008 ASA Annual Jeanne Fleming, Money magazine and Segregation and the Transformation of Nancy Mezey, Monmouth University, was of New York-Hunter College, was quoted Meeting. CNNMoney.com columnist, was quoted Home Mortgage Lending.” quoted in a June 30 article in the Asbury on the potential of an Obama presidency on the subject of weddings, money, Park Press about the mixed findings of Peter Dreier, Occidental College, ap- to alleviate racial inequality in a June 6 Deborah Thorne, Ohio University, was and personal relationships in a number research related to the impact day care. peared on the June 13 edition of PBS’s Bill USA Today story. quoted in a July 20 Columbus Dispatch of publications, including the Wash- Moyers Journal to discuss the deteriora- article about her research that found the Mary Noonan, University of Iowa, was Peter Dreier, Occidental College, ington Post (May 29) and the Chicago tion of work in the United States, the percentage of people 55 or older who file quoted in a June 26 CNN.com article authored a June 4 Huffington Post article, Sun-Times (July 28). She was also inter- importance of unions, and growing for bankruptcy has doubled since 1991. about the study she co-authored, which “Hillary’s Checkers Speech.” viewed on numerous radio programs, inequality in America. The research was funded by AARP and found that married couples tend to place including The Eleanor Mondale & Suzie Riley E. Dunlap, Oklahoma State Uni- the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. more emphasis on the man’s career. Anthony Giddens, University of Cam- Jones Show in Minneapolis (May 30). versity, was quoted in a June 8 story in The research also showed the impact of bridge, and Richard Sennett, London Barron’s (July 14) selected her book Ron Wimberley, North Carolina State the Oklahoman concerning the growing career migration on salaries. School of Economics, were the subject of Isn’t It Their Turn to Pick Up the Check? University, was quoted in a June 17 USA partisan gap in views of global warm- a June 20 posting on the Financial Times’ (written with Leonard Schwarz) as one Today article about the plight of southern Robin Simon, Florida State University, ing among the American public, based “Management” blog. Giddens discussed of nine they recommended for summer towns with economic woes and shrinking was quoted in the July 7 edition of News- on a report he posted on this topic on the addictive nature of work, while reading. populations. week in an article about the happiness the website of the Gallup Organization levels of parents and childless couples. Sennett spoke about managers’ loss of Paul Lasley, Iowa State University, was (where he serves as Gallup Scholar for Her research was cited on the July 13 control over the organizations they are quoted in a July 4 Des Moines Register Sociology of Education the Environment). Wait, Wait, Don’t Tell Me show on National supposed to be managing. article about the driving habits of Iowans. Amy Binder and John H. Evans, both Neil Gross, University of British Co- Public Radio. Michele Gregory, The City University of Lasley asserted that residents might need of University of California-San Diego, lumbia, and Solon Simmons, George New York-York College, was quoted in the to cut costs in other areas to afford high authored an opinion piece in the July 26 Pamela Smock, University of Michigan- Mason University, had their study of the Wall Street Journal’s “Front Lines” blog on gasoline costs because Iowans depend issue of the Washington Post about teach- Ann Arbor, was quoted in a July 28 USA social and political views of American June 4. Gregory offered advice on how on their cars so much. ing evolution. Today report on premarital cohabitation. professors profiled in a July 3New York women could increase their chances of Times article. Michael Olneck, Sara Sara Goldrick-Rab, University of Wis- W. Bradford Wilcox and Steven L. success in corporations. consin-Madison, was cited in a June 23 Nock, both of University of Virginia, had Goldrick-Rab, and Erik Olin Wright, all column in Inside Higher Ed about college their study, “What’s Love Got to Do with Kelly Holder, U.S. Census Bureau, had of University of Wisconsin-Madison, were Purdue University, transfers. Goldrick-Rab found that stu- It? Equality, Equity, Commitment, and her research on military veterans and pay quoted in the article as well. profiled in articles published on June 19 dents from lower-status socioeconomic Women’s Marital Quality,” cited in a July 14 Darnell Hunt, University of California-Los in the Navy Times and Marine Corps Times. West Lafayette. backgrounds are more likely than their article on CNN.com about motherhood. Angeles, was quoted in a June 22 Los An- Holder’s research was presented at the well-off peers to transfer in ways that geles Times article about the depictions The Department of Sociology 2008 ASA Annual Meeting. (www.cla.purdue.edu/sociology) reduce their odds of earning a degree. International Migration of race and the presidency in Hollywood. Pierrette Hondagneu-Sotelo, University invites applications for a tenure-track Christopher Jencks, Harvard University, Philip Kasinitz, CUNY Graduate Center Gregory D. Squires, George Washington of Southern California, was quoted in a position of Assistant Professor of had his 1970s reanalysis of James S. Cole- and Hunter College, had his research on University, had his commentary on race June 4 Associated Press story about do- man’s 1960s data on student achieve- immigration’s impact in New York City and the presidential primaries published Sociology to begin August 2009. We are mestic workers organizing for workplace seeking candidates with research and ment in segregated schools cited in a profiled in a July 3New York Daily News in the Nation on June 17 and discussed in July 20 New York Times article titled “The article. Kasinitz, along with John Mol- rights. teaching interests in social inequality and “Rooflines,” a blog of the National Hous- Next Kind of Integration.” lenkopf, CUNY Graduate Center, Mary Richard Douglas Lloyd, Vanderbilt ing Institute, on June 18. social stratification. Qualified candidates Waters, Harvard University, and Jennifer Bruce Keith, U.S. Military Academy-West University, was quoted in a June 13 will have a PhD in sociology by the date Holdaway, Social Science Research Sociology of Religion Point, was quoted in Inside Higher Ed on Chicago Tribune article about street of appointment. Applicants should submit Council, authored Inheriting the City: The July 18 about West Point’s efforts to map buskers in Chicago. Lloyd is the author Peter Berger, Boston University, and the following: a statement of research Children of Immigrants Come of Age, pub- student learning. of Neo-Bohemia: Art and Commerce in the D. Michael Lindsay, Rice University, lished by the Russell Sage Foundation. and teaching interests, curriculum vitae, Post-Industrial City. were quoted in June 23 Time magazine John Warren, University of Minnesota, publications, information regarding and Boston Globe articles about a poll was quoted in a June 21 Associated Press Latino/Latina Sociology Jennifer Lundquist, University of teaching (approach, experience and of religious beliefs in the United States article about high school graduation test- Massachusetts-Amherst, had her research Margarita Mooney, University of North conducted by the Pew Forum on Religion effectiveness), and three letters of ing requirements in Oregon. The article on military job satisfaction profiled in a Carolina-Chapel Hill, co-authored an and Public Life. Lindsay was also quoted reference addressing teaching strengths in appeared on Yahoo! News, Forbes.com, June 23 Newsweek article. Lundquist’s editorial in the March 28 issue of the on the poll results within an Associ- addition to scholarly activity. and in news outlets across the country. research appeared in the June issue of Chronicle of Higher Education. The column the American Sociological Review. ated Press story and articles in the San Submit these materials to: highlighted findings of research con- Francisco Chronicle and USA Today from Environment and Technology Ruth Milkman, University of California- Sociology Faculty Search Committee, ducted with Deborah Rivas-Drake about June 23. Los Angeles, was quoted in Los Angeles Department of Sociology, Mel Barber, Flagler College, was inter- Latino college students. viewed for a feature article about the Times article about sick leave in the work- Mark Chaves, Duke University, was Purdue University, Nestor Rodriguez, University of Hous- impact of technology on community place. Milkman is director of the Institute quoted in a June 5 Religion Blog post 700 W. State Street, ton, was quoted about the growth of life in the winter 2008 edition of Flagler for Research on Labor and Employment. from the Dallas Morning News. The post bodegas and supermercados in a July 23 West Lafayette, IN 47907-2059. Magazine. The article was also published in the July discussed Chaves’ research with Shawna Houston Chronicle article about neighbor- Anderson, Duke University, and Jessica Inquiries also may be directed to 15 Denver Post. Robert J. Brulle, Drexel University, was hood markets growing into local chains. Hamar Martinez, Catherine Hoegeman, Christine Percheski, Princeton Uni- James D. Davidson (davidsonj@ quoted in an article about conflicting and Gary Adler, all of the University of versity, had her research on women’s purdue.edu), Search Committee Chair. findings of scientific research and the Sociology of Leisure/Sports/ Arizona. The research showed that reli- employment rates from the June issue of news media’s coverage of such findings Recreation gious congregations “go out of business” The university offers excellent salary the American Sociological Review covered from the July 29 New York Times. The less than any other kind of organization. and benefits and is located in an Jay Coakley, University of Colorado, was in a June 12 Reuters article. Percheski article primarily focused on coverage of Chaves was also quoted in a June 23 USA affordable metropolitan area of quoted in a June 20 Christian Science was interviewed by KCSN News radio in climate change issues. Today article about the results of a Pew 150,000 people conveniently located Monitor article about the increasing inter- Northridge, CA, and her research was est in dragon boat racing. Forum on Religion and Public Life poll. between Indianapolis and Chicago. The James A. Evans, University of Chicago, cited on womenworking.com on June was quoted in the July 18 issue of the department has 27 full-time sociologists. Doug Hartmann, University of Min- 11. The research was profiled on the Wall Sandra Enos, Bryant University, was Chronicle of Higher Education. The article quoted in an Associated Press article The teaching load is two courses nesota, was quoted in a July 8 Los Angeles Street Journal’s “Juggle” blog on June 20 described Evans’ research, which found and appeared in the June 25 Orlando about the impact of government stimu- per semester and includes teaching Times article about inequality and sports. that scholars’ citations tended toward Hartmann is author of Race, Culture and Sentinel. lus checks on congregational giving. The graduate and undergraduate students. more recent and less diverse articles as article appeared in the Austin American- the Revolt of the Black Athlete: The 1968 Jessica Holden Sherwood and Helen Screening of applicants will begin on more journal articles appeared online. Statesman on June 21. Olympic Protests and Their Aftermath. The Mederer, both of the University of Rhode September15, 2008. Purdue is an Equal Sociology of Family article also appeared in The Columbus Island, co-authored a letter to the editor Tony Pogorelc, Catholic University of Opportunity/Equal Access/Affirmative Dispatch on July 19. Hartmann was also in the June 11 Providence Journal in America, was interviewed by the Wash- Action Employer and committed to Paul Amato, Pennsylvania State Universi- quoted on the same topic in the August response to commentary about marriage ington, DC, FOX affiliate for a sociological achieving a diverse faculty. ty, was cited for his research on marriage issue of Smithsonian magazine. in academia. perspective on Pope Benedict XVI’s visit
American Sociological Association footnotes.asanet.org footnotes • September-October 2008 13
announcements to the United States and the pope’s visit changing culture of construction. Paap ing Book” award from the International contact theory was also recently honored Sharon Erickson Nepstad is a Visiting Fel- to the White House on April 16. asserted that a decrease in catcalls at Communications Association for New in Emerging Research Directions for Im- low this fall semester at Notre Dame’s Kroc construction sites may be linked to Media Campaigns and the Managed Citize. proving Intergroup Relations - Building on Institute for International Peace Studies E. Burke Rochford Jr., Middlebury the growing power of women and the The book was given the 2007 “Best Book” the Legacy of Thomas F. Pettigrew. and the Center for the Study of Religion in College, was quoted in the Columbus increased weight of their complaints. award from the ASA’s Communication Society. In 2009, she will be Professor of Dispatch in a July 18 article about Hare Ardal Powell has received an award from and Information Technology section. Sociology and Director of Religious Stud- Krishnas and the movement’s shift to Barbara Risman, University of Illinois- the Music & Letters Trust for travel to ies at the University of New Mexico. mainstream America. Chicago, was interviewed in an April 22 Carol A. Jenkins, Glendale Commu- a Study Day of the Institute of Histori- Baltimore Sun column about a recent nity College, has received the Maricopa cal Research Seminar on British Music, Tanya Nieri joined the sociology faculty Anson Shupe, Indiana University-Purdue report indicating that men’s contribution Community College District /GCC’s School of Advanced Study, University of of the University of California-Riverside as University, was quoted in a June 6 News to housework has doubled over the past 2008 Diversity Award of Excellence for London, on May 12, 2008. an Assistant Professor. & Observer article about when religion 40 years. Introduction to Sociology transformation leaders fail their congregants. Susan Silbey, Massachusetts Institute James D. Orcutt was accorded Emeritus initiatives that systematically infuse the of Technology, received a John Simon status at Florida State University. W. Bradford Wilcox, University of Virgin- Sociology of Sexualities complexities and diversities in American Guggenheim Foundation Fellowship for ia, authored commentary about fathers rural life in curriculum, instruction, stu- Linda Quirke has joined the Department Laura Carpenter, Vanderbilt University, 2008-09 for her study “Trust and Surveil- and religion in the June 13 issue of the dent learning, and introduction textbook of Sociology as an Assistant Professor Peter Bearman, Columbia University, and lance in the Cultures of Science.” Wall Street Journal. Wilcox summarized at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Hannah Brueckner, Yale University, had inclusion. research on religious involvement and its Ontario. their research studies cited in a WebMD. David A. Kinney, Central Michigan effect on fatherhood. com article about loss of virginity. University, received the Marvin Olsen Douglas Schrock, Florida State Univer- Transitions sity, was promoted to Associate Professor Sociological Practice Christopher Carrington, San Francisco Award for Distinguished Service to Barry D Adam, University of Windsor, has with tenure. State University, was quoted in a June 13 Sociology from the Michigan Sociological Eric Klinenberg, New York University, been cross-appointed as Senior Scientist front-page Sacramento Bee story about Association. Annette Schwabe, Florida State Univer- authored an article about disaster pre- and Director of Prevention Research at the gay marriage in California. sity, was promoted to Associate Professor paredness in the July 6 New York Times Ali Akbar Mahdi was recipient of Ohio Ontario HIV Treatment Network in Toronto. in Sociology. Magazine. Klinenberg was quoted on the Héctor Delgado, University of La Vergne, Wesleyan University’s 2008 Herbert Margaret Bader has been promoted to same topic in a July 18 article in the New was quoted about how the Latino com- Welch Meritorious Teaching Award. Jackie Smith has been appointed direc- Assistant Professor in Sociology at Nunez York Times. munity in Los Angeles will assimilate to tor of the Center for the Study of Social Patricia Yancey Martin, Florida State Community College. the idea of same sex marriages in an ar- University, was placed on Southern Movements and Social Change at the Race, Gender, and Class ticle from the June 18 issue of La Opinión. Sociological Society’s Roll of Honor in Shakora Harrue Banks has been appoint- University of Notre Dame. ed as a full-time faculty member of social Janice McCabe, Florida State Univer- Chrys Ingraham, State University of New recognition of her career of distinguished Miles Taylor joined Florida State Univer- sciences at Villa Maria College of Buffalo. sity, was interviewed by the Tallahassee York-Purchase, was quoted in the June intellectual contributions. sity as an Assistant Professor. Democrat about how her research linked 27 issue of Salem News and July 2 issue Cynthia Buckley has recently joined the Phyllis Moen, University of Minnesota, Edward Telles is moving to Princeton to Dr. Martin Luther King’s legacy. of New England’s Bay Windows on the Board of Directors of the National Council and Richard P. Shore, Department of University in fall 2008. for East European and Eurasian Research. Orlando Patterson, Harvard University, topic of gay marriage and the future of Labor and Cornell University Institute for was quoted in a June 8 New York Times wedding market in Massachusetts and Labor Market Policies, received the 2008 Arnold Dashefsky, University of Connecti- article about Barack Obama, race, and California. Work Life Legacy Awards from the Fami- cut, has been appointed the inaugural People white America. Patterson discussed a Edward Laumann, University of Chicago, lies and Work Institute on June 9, 2008. holder of the Doris and Simon Konover Diane R. Brown, University of Medicine growing “ecumenical” unselfconsciously had his landmark 1999 sex study men- Edward Murguia, received the Founders Chair of Judaic Studies. He serves as the and Dentistry of New Jersey, and Verna multiracial American culture. tioned in The Chicago Tribune “Triage” Award from the American Sociological founding Director of the Center for Judaic M. Keith, Florida State University, were blog on July 24. Association Latina/o Section. Studies and Contemporary Jewish Life as Racial and Ethnic Minorities well as Director of the Berman Institute- invited guest speakers on their book In Kimberly Richman, University of San Robert Perrucci, Purdue University, North American Jewish Data Bank. and Out of Our Right Minds: Mental Health Jorge Chapa, University of Illinois, Francisco, was quoted in a June 18 received the J. Milton Yinger Award for a of Black Women at the 24th annual Art discussed the growing recognition of Mercury News article about gay marriage Distinguished Career in Sociology from Robert J Graham is the new Dean of Sanctuary’s Celebration of Black Writing mixed-race Americans in a July 21 San in California. the North Central Sociological Associa- Undergraduate Studies at Waynesburg held May 25-26 in Philadelphia. Francisco Chronicle article about the tion. University. impact of Barack Obama’s presidential R. Steven Warner, University of Illinois- Cynthia Buckley, University of Eszter Hargittai, Northwestern Univer- campaign as it relates to race. Chicago, is quoted in an article from the Kenneth J. Neubeck, University of Con- Texas-Austin, was invited to present June 17 issue of the Christian Century necticut, received an award for When sity, was promoted to Associate Professor her research on migration, health, and Michael Eric Dyson, Georgetown Uni- magazine that examines the efforts of Welfare Disappears: The Case for Economic with tenure in the Department of Com- development at the National Intelligence versity, authored a commentary piece ap- Metropolitan Community Churches Human Rights. The book was cited as munication Studies. Council/US State Department seminar, pearing on CNN.com July 24 about race founder Troy Perry to legalize gay mar- “Best Book in the Field of Human Rights” Jeffrey Kentor is the new Chair of the “Tajikistan and Stability,” this past June. in America and the prison system. Dyson riage. by the U.S. Human Rights Network’s 2008 Department of Sociology at the Univer- was featured as part of a CNN special, James Gramlich, University of Illinois- Writers Symposium. sity of Utah. Black in America. Teaching and Learning Chicago, has accepted a tenure track Thomas Pettigrew, University of Aaron Kupchik, University of Delaware, position at Harper College in Palatine, IL. Ann Morning, New York University, was Jerry Jacobs, University of Pennsylvania, California-Santa Cruz, has received has been promoted to Associate Profes- Anna Guevarra, University of Illinois-Chi- quoted in a June 26 USA Today article and Christopher Uggen, University of an honorary doctorate from Philipps sor with tenure. cago, was awarded a faculty fellowship about a report on the social views of Minnesota-Twin Cities, were quoted in University, Marburg, Germany. In 2009, from UIC’s Institute on Race and Public black Americans. Morning highlighted a June 23 Inside Higher Ed article about he will receive the Lifetime Achievement Belinda Needham and Gail Wallace Policy. the heterogenic nature of black America. ASA’s “Too Many or Too Few Ph.D’s?” re- Award from the International Academy have joined the Department of Sociology at the University of Alabama-Birmingham Timothy D. Pippert, Augsburg College, port. Jacobs co-authored the report with for Intercultural Research. His life’s work Kevin Lamarr James, University of as Assistant Professors. had his research on college viewbooks ASA’s Roberta Spalter-Roth. in intergroup relations and intergroup Illinois-Chicago, has accepted a position and their representations on diversity Lloyd Rogler, Fordham University, was profiled in July 2Inside Higher Ed and July featured in an article in the Journal News 3 Daily Texan articles. Pippert, working on May 31. He discussed the process with then-student Edward J. Matchett, of writing and communicating social ASA’s Academic and Professional Affairs research insights to the public, as well as Department, found that universities his new book, Barrio Professors. tended to over-represent blacks and Asians in their viewbooks. Theory David Segal, University of Maryland, was Jerker Denrell, Stanford University, interviewed on the topic of race and the authored a column in the July 4 issue of military in a segment on NBC’s Nightly Science magazine about indirect social News that aired in July. influence. Gregory D. Squires, George Washing- ton University, appeared in the July 22 broadcast of PBS’s Nightly Business Report Awards in a story on racial implications of the Bonnie Berry has been honored with foreclosure crisis. the 2008 Herbert Bloch Award for distinguished service to the discipline of Sociology of Sex and Gender criminology and to the American Society Martha McCaughey, Appalachian of Criminology. State University, authored an article on Bill D’Antonio and Tony Pogorelc, academic freedom and “the right-wing Catholic University of America, received campaign against women’s studies” in the 2008 award from the Catholic Press the summer issue of Ms. magazine. Association for historical writing for their Beth Montemurro, Penn State book Voices of the Faithful: Loyal Catholics University-Abington, was quoted in a Striving for Change. June 5 ABCNews.com article about a Beverly Hair, Muskegon Community website that offers a wedding registry for College, received the Larry T. Reynolds men. Montemurro, author of Something Award for Outstanding Teaching of Old, Something Bold: Bridal Showers and Sociology from the Michigan Sociological Bachelorette Parties, asserted that the Association. historical feminization of weddings has made it difficult for men to partake in Katrina Hoop, Saint Joseph’s College of wedding activities. Maine, received the Teacher of the Year
award for 2008. cartoonbank.com. 1997 Michael Collection Maslin from Rights All Reserved. Yorker New The © Kris Paap, State University of New York Institute of Technology, was quoted in Philip N. Howard, University of This and other sociology-related cartoons are available in ASA’s The Sociologist’s Book of Cartoons, available through a July 6 Miami Herald article about the Washington, won the 2008 “Outstand- the ASA online bookstore,
announcements as a Visiting Assistant Professor at Indiana Home: Population Movement and Belong- cultural America: The Newest Americans. information about institutions offering ent social psychology as a coherent disci- University-South Bend for the next ing in Eurasia (Johns Hopkins University The set will consist of essays of 10,000 these majors. pline equally shared between sociology academic year. Press, 2008). to 20,000 words (including bibliography, and psychology. In part as an expression sidebars, and tables) on immigrants to of their unitary vision of social psycholo- Patricia Yancey Martin, Florida State Jeffrey C. Chin, Le Moyne College, and the United States from 50 countries. gy, in 1967 Carl Backman and Paul Secord University, spent March through June of Cardell K. Jacobson, Brigham Young Uni- New Programs Authors will be paid on the basis of the helped establish the “Interdisciplinary 2008 at Gothenburg University in Swe- versity, Within the Social World: Essays in Rice University. A $6.4-million grant length of their essays and will receive the PhD Program in Social Psychology” at den on a Fulbright Fellowship. She also Social Psychology (Allyn and Bacon, 2009). from Houston Endowment to Rice Uni- set of four volumes. The essays are due the University of Nevada—a program gave lectures on her research in Uppsala, versity will fund the establishment of the Madeleine Cousineau, Mount Ida Col- in late summer 2009. Contact: Ron Bayor, that continues to thrive to this day. Carl Lund, and Stockholm at the Royal Techni- first PhD program in sociology in Hous- lege, Introducing Sociology: A Whole New [email protected]. was also one of very few individuals who cal University, Sweden, and at the Univer- ton. The graduate studies will feature an World (Marquette Books, 2008). were ever named a fellow by both the sity of Tampere in Finland. She will serve ISA Current Sociology Monographs and innovative focus on Houston and urban American Sociological Association and as Visiting Professor of Sociology in Fall Steve Derne, SUNY-Geneseo, Globaliza- the Sage Studies in International Sociol- issues. The Sociology Department’s the American Psychological Association. 2008 at the University of Illinois-Chicago tion on the Ground: Media and The Trans- ogy Book Series Search for Editor. The Center on Race, Religion and Urban Life Carl knew when it was important for where she will teach a seminar on gender formation of Culture, Class and Gender in new editor will take on responsibilities (CORRUL) will serve as the catalyst for the a social scientist to take a stand. During and organizations. India (Sage, 2008). from January, 2010. Current Sociology graduate studies in sociology. As part of the 60s he was involved in fighting rac- Monographs are published twice a year the new program, graduate students will Cecilia Menjívar, Arizona State Univer- Clif Flynn, University of South Carolina ism in Nevada. He took part in various as part of the portfolio journal Current study migration and ethnicity, religion, sity, was promoted to Professor and also Upstate, Social Creatures: A Human and protests on and off campus and refused Sociology. The monographs, which are health, culture and a variety of other awarded a distinguished professorship. Animal Studies Reader (Lantern Books, to hold conferences in the state until published in English with abstracts in issues that have implications for Houston She is now Cowden Distinguished Profes- 2008). discriminatory practices in housing and French and Spanish, are collections of and other modern cities. The graduate sor of Social and Family Dynamics. segregation in hotels and casinos were Jack C. Fong, Caolifornia State Polytechic articles on a central theme, initiated research will complement other Houston banned by law. Susan C. Pearce, East Carolina University, University, Revolution as Development: by one or more of the ISA Research and Texas studies already underway by Carl had a great influence on his was a speaker on a Women in Leadership The Karen Self-Determination Struggle Committees or by one or more of the Rice’s sociology faculty. The new PhD discipline, the university that he served, panel at the National Archives. The panel Against Ethnocracy (1949 – 2004) (Univer- National Associations. Publications in the program must be approved by the Rice the department and the PhD program stems out of her research with immigrant sal Publishers, 2008). Sage Studies in International Sociology Graduate Council and Faculty Senate. The that he helped build, and his many col- women entrepreneurs. include handbooks and collections of plan calls for admitting the first class of Jaber F. Gubrium, University of Missouri, leagues and students. A loving and loved articles deemed suitable by Sage. The graduate students in 2011. Thomas J. Scheff has been awarded the and James A. Holstein, Marquette Uni- family man, he is survived by his wife of editor should have a vision of the kinds degree of honorary doctor in sociology versity, Analyzing Narrative Reality (Sage 60 years, a sister, five children, and nine of themes and debates which reflect (doctor scientiarum socialium honoris cau- Publications, 2009). grandchildren. sa) from the University of Copenhagen. the dynamic developments of the ISA Deaths Pierrette Hondagneu-Sotelo, University and contribute to the advancement of Markus Kemmelmeier, University of Cynthia F. Barnett passed away on April Moshe Seymonov, University of Illinois- Southern California, God’s Heart Has No sociology today. Deadline: December 31, Nevada-Reno 7, 2008, at home, surrounded by her Chicago, gave an invited workshop at Borders: How Religious Activists Are Work- 2008. Contact: Devorah Kalekin-Fishman, loving family, after a long struggle with the European Parliament on May 8. ing for Immigrant Rights (University of Faculty of Education, University of Haifa, breast cancer. Murray S. Davis California Press, 2008). Haifa 31905, Israel; fax +972-4-8240911; Deborah Shatin was recently appointed 1940-2007 to serve a four-year term on the CMS Lane Kenworthy, University of Arizona, [email protected]. Brent K. Marshall, University of Central Medicare Evidence Development & Cov- Jobs with Equality (Oxford University Florida, passed away on April 27, 2008, Our sociological conversation got erage Advisory Committee (MedCAC). Press, 2008). due to complications from a motorcycle a little less interesting last year, when accident. one of its most compelling participants, Louise Shelley has been appointed to Nadia Y. Kim, Loyola Marymount New Murray S. Davis, died on May 17, 2007, in the Global Agenda Council for illicit trade University, Imperial Citizens: Koreans and San Francisco. of the World Economic Forum. Race from Seoul to LA (Stanford University Publications It is small exaggeration to say that Press, 2008). Agenda for Social Justice: Solutions Obituaries Joel Stillerman, Grand Valley State Murray was one of the most interesting 2008. Society for the Study of Social University, will spend the 2008-2009 Neal Krause, University of Michigan-Ann scholars our discipline has produced Problems (SSSP) is pleased to offer you Carl W. Backman academic year in Santiago, Chile with Arbor, Aging and the Church: How Social in recent decades. An heir to Simmel, the Agenda for Social Justice: Solutions the support of a U.S. Dept. of Education Relationships Affect Health (Templeton 1923-2008 Goffman, and Schutz, Murray had an 2008, which represents an effort by our Fulbright-Hayes Faculty Research Abroad Foundation Press, 2008). enviable combination of great analytical professional association to nourish a Carl W. Backman, a long-time ASA grant. He will be a visiting researcher at mind, profound erudition, observant eye, Patricia Leavy, Stonehill College, Method more “public sociology” that will be easily fellow, died at his home in Reno, NV, on the Urban Studies Institute of the Catho- and writer’s voice. Droll, gentle, slyly ir- Meets Art: Arts-Based Research Practice accessible and useful to policymakers. It February 16, 2008. He was 84. Carl was lic University of Chile. reverent, he deftly, almost impishly, lifted (Guilford Press, 2009). is also a way to give something back to born 1923 in Canandaigua, NY, on a fam- the veils of prudery and self righteous Steven Warner, University of Illinois-Chi- the people and institutions that support ily fishing trip. His father was a Swedish Mitchell B Mackinem, Claflin University, rectitude to reveal the roots of ideology cago, was the Greenberg Distinguished our scholarly endeavors. It contains 11 immigrant; his mother was of German- and Paul Higgins, University of South and morality. Visiting Lecturer for 2008 at Trinity Col- pieces by SSSP members, covering a Irish descent. Raised in Buffalo, NY, he Carolina, Drug Courts: Constructing the From 1973 on, Murray gave us a book lege in Hartford. variety of social problems in three sec- graduated from Oberlin College in Ohio. Moral Identity of Drug Offenders (CC each 10 years; the finely crafted prose, di- tions: global issues, Americans at risk, His college career was interrupted by Larry S Williams, University of Missouri, Thomas, 2008). versity of source material, and originality and health and welfare. This is an effort service in the Army during World War II. was appointed by Oregon Governor Ted of the ideas making each worth the wait. Carolina Bank Muñoz, Brooklyn College- on the part of scholars at the SSSP to Because of his high IQ scores, but in spite Kulongoski to serve on the state’s new In Intimate Relations, Murray drew on CUNY, Transnational Tortillas: Race, Gender disseminate the findings in social prob- of his bad eyesight, he was assigned to Committee on Performance Excellence. intellectual sources, personal observa- and Shop Floor Politics in Mexico and the lems research as freely and as widely as intelligence. He fought in the Philippines, The Committee will work with the legis- tions, media, and literature to execute United States (Cornell University Press, 2008). possible. Find the project at
American Sociological Association footnotes.asanet.org footnotes • September-October 2008 15
announcements to little explosive nuggets. research committee for occupational chiatric illness as not only amenable to such crafts as weaving and needlework. its authoritarian hierarchies are shot When he died, Murray was nearly and educational behavior, and he played biomedical solutions but also responsive Though she was always modest and through with social distinctions like class, finished with the manuscript forTHAT’S a leadership role in several long-term to social interaction and labeling. With a unassuming about her own importance, race, gender, and sexual orientation. NOT FUNNY! The War between the Serious studies of disadvantaged families for the coveted Research Scientist Award from her work as a sociologist adds up to quite Charlie documented how the patterns, and the Humorous. The sequel to What’s USDA and the Agricultural Experiment NIMH (1968-1973), Nancy studied fami- a remarkable record of discovery of the tensions, and conflicts wrought by these So Funny?, which asked “What must Station at Texas A&M University and lies and schizophrenia from a deviance many ways in which health and the treat- social differences were internalized, man- the world be like for humor about it to Prairie View A&M University. perspective. With another NIMH award ment of illness are powerfully shaped by aged, and (sometimes) ignored. Charlie be possible?”, asks the complementary He was elected to the Texas Academy (1973-78), she traveled to Sri Lanka to social relationships and cultural milieu. also devoted considerable time to the question: “What must the self be like for of Science in 1971 and served in the examine how schizophrenia was treated study of Greek-Americans, a topic dear to Janet Zollinger Giele, Brandeis University; laughter about the world to be possible?” academy in different positions includ- by traditional means. In a frequently cited his heart. Elliot G. Mishler, Harvard University; Elvi Murray was also the author of a soci- ing as the Vice President of the social article (1979) she suggested that the Moskos was an award-winning Whittaker, University of British Columbia ology cult classic, “That’s Interesting!” This science divisions. He also served as the outcome for schizophrenia was better in teacher. His Introduction to Sociology piece starts from the observation that the President of the Southwestern Sociologi- preindustrial societies, a radical theme at became a “must-take” class for decades of importance of a theory depends more cal Association in 1974. Bill was inspired the time was upheld in later studies by Charles Moskos Northwestern undergraduates, and was on whether it is interesting than whether by the growing humanist movement in the World Health Organization. 1934-2008 always held in the biggest lecture hall on it is right, and then goes on to lay out sociology and served as the President of In Sri Lanka, Nancy met her future campus. It was such a legend that exams multiple strategies for how to make ideas the Association for Humanist Sociology husband, Barrie Morrison, and her focus Charles C. Moskos, preeminent and lecture notes became part of the in- interesting. in 1980. shifted to questions of broader access sociologist of the military and long-time tellectual inheritance passed down from In Aphoristics Murray wrote, “The Within Texas A&M, Bill was a cham- to health care and social justice in the member of the Northwestern University one undergraduate generation to the most important thing in your life is the pion for democratic leadership and was treatment of minorities. Nancy joined sociology department, died of cancer on next (Charlie once joked that some frater- most important thing in your life. Less certainly not shy about telling adminis- Morrison in Vancouver at the University May 31, 2008. A man of humble origins nity crib-sheets were even better than his tautologically put: the general form trators when he thought they had acted of British Columbia (UBC) in 1979, and, from an immigrant family, Charlie was own lecture notes.) His course often got a ‘most important’ is more important than in an autocratic fashion. Dedicated to following an initial appointment in known for his great personal kindness, mention on the campus tour for prospec- any of its particular contents. The most the goal of a democratic university, Bill Health Care and Epidemiology, became a congeniality, and lack of pretense even as tive students. Grading final exams for important aspect of your life, then, is not served on the ad hoc committee that faculty member in the Department of An- he mingled with the elite of Washington, his Intro class was equally a collective the aspect you believe is most important successfully created the faculty senate thropology and Sociology and the School DC, and showed up regularly in the New rite-of-passage for NU graduate students: but the tenacity with which you defend at Texas A&M. He occupied several of Social Work. Building on her extensive York Times. As a former enlisted man, done by 15-20 people around a table, it it against criticism from those who leadership positions in the Department collaborative research in Sri Lanka and Charlie never took himself too seriously. combined serious performance evalua- believe that some other aspect is more of Sociology, including Graduate Advisor Kerala, India, she continued her pioneer Aldon Morris spoke for many when he tion with a party atmosphere, irreverent important.” at several different points in time and work on higher infant mortality rates said: “While I treasure all Charlie’s gifts, joking and food. After his retirement, he For Murray, ostensibly, the most im- Associate Head in 1992-93. among the minority Tamils and Muslims it is his friendship and loyalty I will miss continued to return to Northwestern to portant things were thinking and writing, Bill was above all, an impassioned of Sri Lanka with a prestigious fellowship most.” teach, and always to a full house. Despite but his friends treasure the recollections teacher. Known as “Kuvy” to his gradu- at the Rockefeller Center in Bellagio, Italy, Moskos was born in Chicago in failing health, he taught for the last time of his company for he epitomized the ate students, he taught many different in 1988. 1934 and graduated from high school in in the fall of 2007, and for undergradu- idea that the conversation makes the courses, but his favorite was sociological At UBC, Nancy Waxler Morrison Albuquerque, NM. He attended Princeton ates an era came to a close. A Charles meal. Lunch or dinner with Murray would theory. Bill liked to challenge his students became one of the university’s leading University, an outsider to its privileged Moskos Visiting Professorship was estab- start out with a warm, if shy, greeting. to develop their own logical analyses of figures in social science and health care, northeastern WASP culture. After gradu- lished in 2006 to recognize his service to Then reassurance that the restaurant was theories and be ready to defend them. giving guest lectures and serving on ating cum laude in 1956, Moskos was Northwestern, funded by donations from OK if you had picked it, or caveats if he They had to be ready to defend because dissertation committees in many depart- drafted and served in the army. He then numerous university alums and friends. had. Then to social theory to politics to he was merciless in his criticism. The first ments and faculties and as a consultant went to graduate school and earned a Moskos also mentored many graduate recent fiction to Tuesday’sScience Times time students faced his critique, they in Ottawa. The range of her courses was PhD from UCLA in 1963. He taught at the students, who now work throughout the to updates about the adventures or mis- were often reduced to mumbling. The impressive: sociology of medicine, social University of Michigan and joined the academy, think tanks, policy institutes, adventures of his family and back again. second (third, fourth, and nth) times, they research methods, health and illness, Northwestern faculty in 1966. Moskos and the U.S. military. One of his last PhD Murray often remarked that he wasn’t were stronger thinkers and better soci- the family in cross-cultural perspective, remained at Northwestern until his retire- students, Liora Sion, paid tribute: “Charlie gifted socially (“missing the social gene,” ologists because of these critiques. The health policy and planning. Her advice ment in 2003 as the Harold H. and Virgin- was my mentor and friend. He always he said), but, in fact, his presence made Rural Sociological Society honored Bill and her lectures in psychiatry and nurs- ia Anderson Professor. Twice he served as made me feel welcome, always was ready any meal a feast of sociality, conviviality, and his teaching by bestowing on him in ing, anthropology, history, and Asian department chair. During his career, he to give good advice even when he was and intellectuality. You always left with 1994 their Teaching Excellence Award. studies touched on applications to inter- wrote or edited 19 books and mono- very sick. For me Charlie is generosity, an idea for an essay or a turn of phrase to Although Bill was a demanding national and Canadian health services. graphs and 164 journal articles, review good heart and a lot of delicious Greek write down or a book to read, but most of teacher, he was also welcoming on a Trusted and respected by students essays, and book chapters. His writings food.” all, you came away reassured that a rich, personal level. His graduate students and colleagues alike, her teaching career were translated into 21 languages. Char- A controversial Clinton-administra- free universe of discourse still existed often congregated at his and his wife had begun in the Boston area with ad- lie received numerous honors including tion compromise policy for dealing with and that sociality, for its own sake, was a Eileen’s home. Students were cheerfully junct appointments at Emmanuel College a Guggenheim fellowship, several Wilson gays and lesbians in the military, “Don’t good thing. fed and often participated in whatever and Wellesley College. In 1975 and 1980- Center fellowships, the ASA Award for the Ask, Don’t Tell,” made Charlie famous, but The final aphorism inAphoristics the five Kuvlesky children’s activities 81 she was affiliated with the University Public Understanding of Sociology, two that isn’t what his colleagues will most is this: “Those who can identify with encompassed at the time. So, graduate of Ceylon in Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, and honorary doctorates, membership in the remember. We will miss his boundless their thoughts completely are immortal students sometimes found themselves, from 1981 to 1992, with the Department American Academy of Arts and Sciences humor and personal warmth, his global as long as their thoughts continue to unexpectedly, umpiring softball or base- of Psychiatry at the University of Washing- and in the Sociological Research Associa- perspective, his insider gossip, and his circulate in the minds of others—like this ball games. ton. She retired from UBC in 1992. tion, chairman of the Inter-University unwavering decency and good citizen- thought in you. Thanks for reviving me, Bill was a truly unique person and so- Her wide-ranging research interests Seminar on Armed Forces and Society, ship. We have lost a real mensch. As his however briefly.” You’re welcome, Murray, ciologist. He was not the kind of person extended to leprosy, illness among Cana- various career achievement awards, and long-time friend Howie Becker said: anytime. to worry about political consequences. dian minority groups, psychosocial factors the Decoration for Distinguished Civilian “Charlie Moskos was a terrific sociolo- This made him an invaluable colleague, in women with breast cancer, Ayurvedic Service from the U.S. Army. His political gist, a loyal and wonderful friend, a great Dan Ryan with contributions from Eviatar mentor, and friend. He always told us and homeopathic medical systems in Ker- engagement was reflected in numerous colleague.” Zerubavel, Catherine Schmidt, Murray exactly what he thought and why. We ala, access to dental care for institutional- op-ed pieces, frequent testimony before Charlie leaves behind his wife, Ilca, Davis, Wayne Brekhus, Barrie Thorne, shall miss his sage advice, his critiques ized elders, and asthma among lumber Congress, involvement in the Democratic sons, Peter and Andrew, daughter-in-law Donna Huse, and Judith Adler and his laughter. workers. In collaboration with graduate Leadership Council and the Progressive Saskia, three grandchildren, and many students and health professionals, she Policy Institute, and in his phenomenal bereft friends, colleagues, and former William W. Falk, University of Maryland; William P. Kuvlesky produced two editions of Cross-Cultural political networks. He lectured all over students. Proud of his Greek heritage and Dudley L. Poston, Texas A&M University; Caring (1992, 2005, co-edited with Joan the world, in both civilian and military devoted to his family, he always appreci- 1933-2008 Jane Sell, Texas A&M University Anderson). This work has been widely institutions, and accompanied U.S. com- ated a good joke. So it is fitting that he is William Peter Kuvlesky, 74, passed used by nurses, social workers, physicians, bat troops in their overseas deployments buried next to his father, but not far from away on May 5, 2008. Nancy E. Waxler Morrison and other health care professionals. from Vietnam in 1965 to Iraq in 2003. John Belushi. Bill was born in North Braddock, PA. Nancy also enjoyed a rich personal In his scholarship, Charlie treated the 1931-2007 Bruce G. Carruthers and Wendy Nelson He grew up on a dairy farm in western life. She found pleasure in all kinds of military like a social institution. Military Espeland, Northwestern University Pennsylvania and he served in the Marine Nancy E. Waxler Morrison died sud- travel. She had a talent for gardening and power is central to the very definition of Corps. After his service in the military, Bill denly in February 2007 while on vacation good cooking, and an interest and skill in the modern state, but, as an institution, attended Penn State University where he with her husband in Costa Rica. She grew received his BS, MS, and PhD degrees. He up in Urbana, IL, where she attended the and his family moved to College Station University of Illinois, was elected to Phi in 1964 where he was a professor in the Beta Kappa, and graduated first in her Texas A&M University Departments of Ru- class. She received her PhD in sociology Footnotes Website ral Sociology and Sociology. He retired in from the Harvard Department of Social 1997 as Professor Emeritus of Sociology. Relations in 1959 and then embarked Bill was especially interested and on a career of research and teaching in Has Been Redesigned! active in research on rural groups. He was the sociology of medicine—a field that an active member of the Rural Sociologi- was then still in its infancy. Her most cal Society throughout his career. He was important legacy was to demonstrate the The online Footnotes newsletter webpages have particularly interested in exploring the many ways that health and health care factors that lead to systematic disadvan- are shaped by psychological states and been redesigned to complement the design of the tage for low income and minority youth. different ethnic and cultural expectations On this topic he published scores of as well as the particular disadvantage current printed issues. In addition to the graphic chapters and research monographs and experienced by those who are poor and many articles in such journals as Rural powerless. redesign, the new structure of the online edition has Sociology, Social Science Quarterly, Journal Nancy’s first major research was of Marriage and the Family, Humanity and done in the 1960s with Elliot Mishler at been reorganized to be more “user friendly” and easy Society and The Rural Sociologist. In par- the Harvard Medical School where she ticular, his research severely challenged later became an Associate Professor of to navigate. Read current and past issues online at the view that minorities were disadvan- Sociology in the Department of Psychia- taged due to their “pathological sub- try. Their studies of interaction patterns culture.” He served several times as the in families with a schizophrenic child
funding For Members Only ASA Member-Get-A-Member Upcoming ASA Funding Opportunities Community Action Research Initiative Campaign a Success Deadline: February 2, 2009 The 2008 ASA Member-Get-A-Member campaign concluded on July 15. Sponsored by the ASA Sydney S. Spivack Program in Applied Social Research and More than 60 current ASA members (see list below) sponsored 72 new Social Policy, these small grants encourage sociologists to undertake community members for 2008. action projects that bring to bear social science knowledge, methods, and expertise in addressing community-identified issues and concerns. For every new non-student member sponsored during the campaign, sponsors will receive a $10-discount on their 2009 member dues. In addition, every member who sponsored a new member (student or non- ASA Congressional Fellowship student) was entered into a drawing to win a $500-gift certificate for Deadline: February 2, 2009 Amazon.com. Congratulations go to this year’s winner, Krista B. McQueeney Sponsored by the ASA Sydney S. Spivack Program in Applied Social Research and from Salem College in Winston Salem, NC. Social Policy, the Congressional Fellow serves for six months as a member of a staff The ASA extends its gratitude to all participating sponsors in the 2008 office in the U.S. House or Senate. The Fellow will learn the workings of Congress and Member-Get-A-Member campaign and throughout the year. will share the uses and contributions of sociology with the placement site. Patricia Yvonne Virginia Teas Gill Sigrun Olafsdottir Anderson Jennifer Elyse Glick Andrew V. Papachristos Fund for the Advancement of the Discipline Lotte Bailyn Brian Gran Karl T. Pfeiffer Deadline: December 15, 2008, and June 15, 2009 Yanjie Bian Keith N. Hampton Krishnendu Ray Supported by the ASA through a matching grant from the National Science Shawn Chandler Julie E. Hartman Catherine Kohler Foundation, the goal of FAD is to nurture the development of scientific knowledge Bingham Melanie A. Hulbert Riessman by funding small, groundbreaking research initiatives and other important scientific Sampson Lee Blair Anne M. Johnson Richard K. Scotch research activities such as conferences. FAD awards provide scholars with small grants Jon P. Bloch Katharine W. Jones Gay W. Seidman ($7,000 maximum) for innovative research that has the potential for challenging the Michael Burawoy Diana Leilani Karafin Michael Shalev discipline, stimulating new lines of research, and creating new networks of scientific Patricia T. Clough Kate Kellogg Jean H. Shin collaboration. Gary C. David Fred Kniss Susan S. Silbey Eldad Davidov Edythe M. Krampe Quincy Thomas Stewart Diana K. Davis Heather Laube Gary M. Stokley Minority Fellowship Program Jesus M. De Miguel Lynda L. Laughlin William Velez Deadline: January 31, 2009 Thomas A. DiPrete Robert C. Liebman Hector Vera Supported by a grant from the National Institute of Mental Health, this longstanding James J. Dowd Linda Lobao Mary E. Virnoche American Sociological Association training grant supports pre-doctoral graduate Angela Durante Lisa McCormick Margaret Weigers education for sociology students. Jason T. Eastman Tanya McNeill Vitullo Michael P. Farrell Krista B. McQueeney Lisa Dawn Wade Cynthia Feliciano Rick Welsh ASA Teaching Enhancement Fund - Small Grants Program Randi L. Miller Deadline: February 2, 2009 Kathleen J. Ferraro Christopher Muller Charles V. Willie Anne Figert Edward Murguia Akiko Yoshida The ASA Teaching Enhancement Fund Small Grants Program provides support to an Axel Franzen Daniel Fabian Nehring individual, department, program, or committee of a state/regional sociology asso- ciation to enhance the teaching of sociology that will have systemic and enduring impact on the teaching and learning of sociology.
For more information on each of these Funding Opportunities, visit www.asanet.org and click on “Funding.”
Volume 36 • Number 7 • September-October 2008