Sociology and Its Publics: Reframing Engagement and Revitalizing the Field

ABSTRACT

This article outlines how sociologists can and do engage a range of general, nonacademic public audiences, organizations, and interests. It begins with a discussion and critique of the notion of public sociology that emerged from Michael Burawoy’s 2004 American Sociological Association (ASA) presidency and draws upon recent commentaries and classical theories to formulate a more pluralist vision of sociology’s publics. The article concludes by arguing that embracing a multidimensional vision of the relationships between sociology and its publics not only provides a foundation for better public engagement, but also can help renew and revitalize of sociology.

KEYWORDS:

• Sociology
• public sociology
• engagement
• public sphere
• social media

Acknowledgments

This paper was originally presented as the Presidential Address of the 2016 Midwest Sociological Society’s Annual Meetings in Chicago, IL on March 24. I appreciate input and assistance on earlier versions and drafts from Chris Uggen, Letta Page, and the graduate student board of The Society Pages. A number of my former graduate students such as Erika Busse, Paul Croll, Tiffany Davis, Danielle Docka-Fillipek, Meghan Krausch, Raphi Raphinsky, and Darren Wheelock have provided feedback and support along the way as well. I am also grateful for the questions, comments, and general support from all in attendance at the Chicago keynote. Those who offered specific and even written feedback include: Monte Bute, Gary Alan Fine, Joe Gerteis, Sally Hillsman, John Holmwood, Peter Kivisto, Carolyn Ly, Diane Pike, Teresa Swartz, Ted Thornhill, Deb White, and Rhys Williams. I am also extremely grateful to Erin Hoekstra and Lauren Tiffany for all their work in helping put together the MSS program “Sociology and its Publics: The Next Generation” in 2015 as well as to Dalton Conley, Theda Skocpol, and Lisa Wade for contributing outstanding keynote sessions to that program. Finally, kudos to TSQ editor Peter Hall for his enthusiastic embrace of the talk and willingness to convene symposium about it.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Douglas Hartmann

Douglas Hartmann is Professor of Sociology at the University of Minnesota and Past President of the Midwest Sociological Society. He is the author, most recently, of Midnight Basketball: Race, Sports, and Neoliberal Social Policy (Chicago 2016) and co-author (with Syed Ali) of Migration, Incorporation and Change in an Interconnected World (Routledge 2015). Hartmann is also Publisher and Editor (with Christopher Uggen) of The Society Pages.org.