Students in Sociology develop an understanding of both everyday social behavior and the structural factors that contribute to social injustices. In the seminar room and in the field, students also acquire the intellectual tools to identify and critically analyze social phenomena and trends, along with the methodological tools to conduct rigorous research.
In and out of the classroom we understand that how we conduct ourselves affects the learning and well-being of others. We are individual scholars as well as a scholarly community, and therefore – against polarizing currents – we invest in both our own and others’ capacities and insights.
What is Sociology?
The American Sociological Association defines Sociology as “the study of social life, social change, and the social causes and consequences of human behavior.”
Sociologists investigate the structure of groups, organizations, and societies and how people interact within these contexts.
“Since all human behavior is social, the subject matter of Sociology ranges from the intimate family to the hostile mob; from organized crime to religious traditions; from the divisions of race, gender and social class to the shared beliefs of a common culture.”
Sociology in the News
- Deadric Williams Interviewed as Part of Politico RoundtableMatt Bruenig is a blogger and president of the left-leaning think tank People’s Policy Project. Stephanie Coontz is director of research and education for the Council on Contemporary Families and the author of… Read more: Deadric Williams Interviewed as Part of Politico Roundtable
- Jalata Publishes Article The Conversation on US-African RelationsAfrica is getting renewed attention from Washington — and some African states are courting African Americans President Joe Biden delivers remarks at the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington on… Read more: Jalata Publishes Article The Conversation on US-African Relations
- Tigray has resisted Ethiopia’s far greater military might for two years – here’s why neither side is giving inProtesters in the UK demonstrate against the war in Tigray, Ethiopia, in October 2022.Mike Kemp/In Pictures via Getty Images Asafa Jalata, University of Tennessee The Ethio-Tigray war started on 4… Read more: Tigray has resisted Ethiopia’s far greater military might for two years – here’s why neither side is giving in