Thomas Davidson, PhD Student in Sociology, works with Michael Macy

Department of Sociology

 The department is known for the cutting-edge research of its faculty and for its exceptionally strong graduate and undergraduate training programs.

The department’s focus on basic science is complemented by a deep commitment to informing public and educational policy, particularly on issues related to gender and racial inequality, income inequality, poverty, drug use, economic development, school funding, organizational practices and race and ethnicity.

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Events

Dec 06
Friday

Open Science, Multiverse Analysis and Preferences for Redistribution | Nate Breznau

Friday, Dec, 06 - 03:00 PM

Uris Hall G08

This is a inperson event.

Event speaker

Nate Breznau

University of Bremen

Description

Abstract:

Recent discoveries across science make clear that the way we do research and market it to others incurs bias. This bias is present prior to, during and after conducting research. This bias takes on myriad forms. I discuss some of this bias in this talk as a method of self-awareness, and a step in the direction of correcting it. Therefore, the talk proceeds with a discussion of bias in general and how this might be specific to sociological research and the sociological career. Then I present my own research on public preferences for redistribution. I show how some of this bias can be accounted for through open science practices and a multiverse analysis approach. In this particular study, I propose a theory of government heuristics that impacts the way individuals respond differently to the same survey questions across countries. Where government affect is more negative, individuals are less likely to express preferences for redistribution that are consistent with their ideals. This helps explain an observable paradox, where many individuals say that there is too much inequality in their society, but disagree that the government should take redistributive action. I run some tests of this theory using International Social Survey Program Data covering many rich and middle income countries of the world. 

Crowd around a fountain

What is Sociology?

Sociology is the study of social life, social change, and the social causes and consequences of human behavior. Sociologists investigate the structure of groups, organizations, and societies, and how people interact within these contexts.

Because all human behavior is social, the subject matter of sociology ranges from the intimate family to the hostile mob; from organized crime to religious cults; from the divisions of race, gender, and social class to the shared beliefs of a common culture; and from the sociology of work to the sociology of sports.

Because sociology addresses the most challenging issues of our time, it is a rapidly expanding field whose potential is increasingly tapped by those who craft policies and create programs.

If you think you might be interested in Sociology, start by taking a class. Or, learn more about the major.

Professor Michael Macy with a grad student

The Graduate Program

Cornell’s Graduate Field of Sociology provides top-notch training toward the PhD in Sociology, and has long been known for its emphasis on both theoretical innovation and methodological rigor. The Field, which is much larger than the Department, has close to thirty faculty members. 

Click here to explore our graduate program.

Sociology Jeopardy

Jeopardy!

Check out the Department's Jeopardy! display case on the 3rd floor of Uris Hall and the corresponding Jeopardy! page, home to solutions, history, and a place where you can share your trivia ideas with us. 

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