Going out

Varia
By Harvey Molotch, Daniel Burnier
English

This article, written in 1994, examines the place of sociology in American public discourse and notes that the main media and politicians ignore sociological assumptions and results. While the sociological audience at all levels is rather small, this reality has a number of negative consequences on the ways in which sociologists behave. The article thus humorously reveals some of the hidden characteristics of sociologists, such as their lack of interest in other disciplines, their “totalitarian assertions”, or their propensity for criticism and peer-to-peer dispute. The author also encourages sociologists to write clearly, without unnecessary jargon, and despite their shyness, to leave their classrooms to constantly discover new environments and live rich lives.

Keywords

  • US sociology
  • sociologists
  • professional characteristics
  • biography
Go to the article on Cairn-int.info