Contexts

sociology for the public

In Brief

News and notes.

Nonviolent Protests and the Formation of Democracies

Can the barrel of a gun point the way to democracy? Some political scientists and sociologists seem to think so. Ali Kadivar challenges this convention … Read More

Black Deaths Matter

It’s hard to imagine a more traumatic experience than the unexpected death of a loved one. But imagination often becomes reality for Black Americans, who … Read More

Setting Precedent

Jeannine Bell interviews Justice Mariano-Florentino Cuéllar about serving on California’s highest court. Read More

The Academic Partner Penalty

Women represent about half of the students enrolled in doctoral programs, but they are largely under-represented in tenure-track professor positions at research universities. Possibly this … Read More

Looking “Illegal”

“When Mexico sends its people, they’re not sending their best. They’re sending people that have lots of problems, and they’re bringing those problems with us. Read More

Gun Shops and Crime

As activists, politicians, law enforcement, and everyday citizens seek ways to cut gun violence, it seems everyone wants to know: How do we make our … Read More

Education Changes Neighborhood Segregation

Residential segregation in the U.S. has declined by 25% since the 1970s, meaning fewer majority White neighborhoods and an increase in integrated and multi-ethnic neighborhoods. Read More

Parents’ Faith Brings Friendship

Social networks offer emotional and material support, buffering against stress in difficult times. Indeed, adults’ strong social networks are associated with happier marriages and better … Read More

Friends in Low Places

Feeling inauthentic? Publicly displaying your appreciation for “lowbrow” art might be the answer. According to Oliver Hahl and colleagues, writing in American Sociological Review, … Read More

Self-Fulfilling Status?

A new study by Rachel Shattuck finds that young women’s wishes about parenting and marital status may materialize in adulthood. The research, published in … Read More