First Publics

Reflections

Sociological Character Arc… When the Adventure Finds You!

Taura Taylor on January 29, 2024

In screenplays and novels, the character arc is the protagonist’s journey. Customarily, via afantastical trajectory of transformation and self-discovery, the … Read More

Reflections

Public Sociology’s Expression

Michael Kennedy on November 1, 2023

I can still recall that 2016 election night gathering filled with sociology faculty and graduate students from across Rhode Island. Read More

Reflections

Teaching is Public Sociology: An Invitation

Sarah Shannon on August 14, 2023

“…our students are our first and captive public.” I have invoked this phrase throughout my career to frame my motivation … Read More

Connections

n this Context’s piece, Auldridge-Reveles and Murphy (2024) argueDecember 16, 2024

In this Context's piece, Auldridge-Reveles and Murphy (2024) argue that we need a sociology of flourishing or well-being instead of focusing only on social problems.

Dixon and Quirke (2017) discuss how ethics chapters in sociological research methods textbooks promote a procedural rather than nuanced approach to ethics.December 11, 2024

Dixon and Quirke (2017) discuss how ethics chapters in sociological research methods textbooks promote a procedural rather than nuanced approach to ethics. They suggest ways for instructors to help students develop a fuller understanding of conducting ethical research.

This one-page piece by Ridgeway (2024) from Contexts Magazine is a great introduction to status and status processes for students!December 9, 2024

This one-page piece by Ridgeway (2024) from Contexts Magazine is a great introduction to status and status processes for students!

Thompson (2024) examines parental preferences in school selectionDecember 4, 2024

Thompson (2024) examines parental preferences in school selection, highlighting how individual choices influence school communities. The study finds that parents prioritize overall school achievement and learning opportunities over schools with higher equity ratings.

Are you teaching a Family Sociology class or a Sociology of Film course next semester?December 2, 2024

Are you teaching a Family Sociology class or a Sociology of Film course next semester? This Teaching Sociology piece recommends the new film Kelce (2023) as a helpful movie for examining themes like work-life balance and raising a family with a high-profile job.