New & Noteworthy

A dark fascination with the paranormal grips society during this spooky time of year, drawing many into the “cultic milieu,” where interest in beliefs of witchcraft, astrology, and hauntings thrive. These subcultures defy mainstream science and religion, offering alternative answers and forming tight-knit communities on the cultural margins. Read this captivating summary of some sociology on the paranormal’s influence on modern culture in “Bewitched, Bothered, and Bewildered” by Jordyn Wald, Mallory Harrington, and Nicole Schmitgen.

The Washington Post highlighted the struggles of older adults with cognitive impairments or dementia who live alone in the U.S., with Professor Elena Portacolone of UCSF explaining how many lack family caregivers, making them an “invisible population” at risk in the healthcare system. In The New York Review, Matthew Desmond of Princeton University discussed urgent housing crisis solutions for the next U.S. administration, urging relief programs for the homeless, restoration of deteriorating housing, zoning reform, and new construction.  Arts Hub and University of Sydney News covered research by Sanné Mestrom and Indigo Willing, revealing how skatable public art structures can foster urban play and inclusivity. Meanwhile, Ilana M. Horwitz of Tulane University explored Jewish Americans’ varied support for the Black Lives Matter movement, as different affiliations influence their views on race and justice, reported in the Jewish Telegraphic Agency. Lastly, Yale News reported on Ángel Escamilla García‘s study on young Central American migrants’ strategies to minimize deportation risk, as they navigate U.S. immigration laws with help from migrant shelters, social media, and fellow migrants. See our weekly Clippings here.

Interest in alternative approaches to justice grows as the limitations of traditional punishment become more apparent, especially for minoritized communities. Restorative Justice (RJ) offers a transformative way to address harm by focusing on healing, accountability, and community cohesion, rather than punishment through fines and incarceration. Evidence shows RJ reduces recidivism, lowers costs, and provides greater satisfaction for victims, with successful adoption in over 80 countries. Discover how RJ is reshaping justice globally in our new ‘There’s Research on That’, “Restorative Justice” by me.

From the Archives

Millions of Americans have already participated in the 2024 election by casting their ballots either by mail or through early in-person voting. This 2012 Sociological Images article by Gwen Sharp discusses how early and absentee voting options have changed the traditional focus on Election Day in the U.S.

Feeling stressed out by the state of the world and the upcoming election? You’re not alone: research shows that many people are trying to avoid the news. Check out this summary of social science research on news avoidance, written by Nick Mathews.

Earlier this week the Department of Transportation fined American Airlines $50 million for repeated violations of laws protecting the rights and safety of passengers with disabilities. The DOT’s investigation found that American Airlines was responsible for the mishandling and damage of thousands of wheelchairs over the past four years, as well as cases where passengers with disabilities were mistreated. Read this Sociological Images 2015 piece by Lisa Wade on accessibility and the ADA.

More from our Partners & Community Pages

Contexts:

  • career choices at a crossroads by Joyce Kim covers her research on how many first-generation, low-income students at elite universities, face pressures to “sell out” by pursuing high-paying jobs in finance, consulting, and tech to support their families, despite ethical or personal concerns. Redefining post-graduation success means supporting these students in finding career paths aligned with their values, not just high salaries.

Council on Contemporary Families:

First Publics: