The Public Sociology Debate ― Ethics and Engagement

In 2004, Michael Burawoy challenged sociologists to move beyond the
ivory tower and into the realm of activism, to engage in public
discourses about what society could or should be. His call to arms
sparked intense debate among sociologists. Which side would
"sociology" take? Who would define "the
norm," and how could public sociology possibly speak for all
sociologists?

In this volume, which opens with a foreword by Michael Burawoy,
leading Canadian sociologists continue the debate by discussing not
only how and why they should do sociology but also how ethical
judgments influence sociological practice and the evaluation of
research. Most importantly, they ask whether and under what
circumstances sociologists should advocate for social change.
Regardless of whether they focus on activism, research, theory, or
teaching, the contributors offer insights into where the discipline is
heading and why it matters to people inside and outside the
university.

As public sociology claims a larger voice in public debates,
questioning its methods and underlying mission becomes increasingly
important. This rigorous and provocative volume lays the foundation for
future conversations.

Ariane Hanemaayer is a doctoral candidate in the
Department of Sociology at the University of Alberta.
Christopher J. Schneider is an assistant professor of
sociology at the University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus.

Jill Bucklaschuk, Michael Burawoy, Rick Helmes-Hayes, Anne Mesny,
Laura Milne, Kyle Nolan, Susan Prentice, Scott Schaffer, Axel van den
Berg, Phillip Vannini

Ariane Hanemaayer is a doctoral candidate in the department of sociology at the University of Alberta. Christopher J. Schneider is an assistant professor of sociology at the University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus. Contributors: Jill Bucklaschuk, Michael Burawoy, Rick Helmes-Hayes, Anne Mesny, Laura Milne, Kyle Nolan, Susan Prentice, Scott Schaffer, Axel van den Berg, Phillip Vannini.