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.
The department also has close ties with the many other research centers on campus. Interdisciplinary research touches on subjects such as inequality, economics, social sciences, nonlinear systems, politics and social dynamics.
Department Resources
Alumni Spotlight: Catherine Zhang ’22
Learning about sociology was fascinating, said Catherine Zhang ‘22, about her experience delving into subjects like inequality and how institutions shape social phenomena.
During her time at Cornell, she appreciated learning under the brilliant faculty members in the department and finding support in her advisor Professor Bischoff.
Learn more about Catherine's journey and her future endeavor joining pioneering technologist program Schmidt Futures.
Explore more profiles of recent sociology majors below:
Spotlight on Recent Sociology Graduates
Sociology News
Political views, not sex and violence, now drive literary censorship
Liberals and conservatives both oppose censorship of children’s literature – unless the writing offends their own political ideology, showing how a once-bipartisan issue has become polarized.
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The Assembly of an American Sociologist
Professor Victor Nee’s autobiography in the Annual Review of Sociology traces the accumulation of experiences involved in a research journey aimed at explanation of social behavior and institutional change.
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Prof. Young adds Empirical Clarity to NYC Wealth Tax Plans
Mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani’s controversial tax plan sparks debate amongst business leaders and economists. Prof. Cristobal Young contributes to conversation in the New York Times DealBook.
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In Memoriam: Cornell Sociology Professor, Steven Caldwell
Caldwell was known as both a pioneering scholar in demographic microsimulation and a devoted teacher and mentor. He played a central role in revitalizing the Department of Sociology during a period of renewal.
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Sense of place trumps tax breaks in choosing where to live
There’s no place like home — and even when state-by-state income tax disparities make it profitable to move, high-wage earners seem to agree, according to new Cornell-led research.
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Macron to blame for instability in French government, says Cornell scholar
The writing was on the wall for the no confidence vote says international populism expert Mabel Berezin.
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'Understanding the forces that promote a culture of silence around sexual harassment has been a driving research motivation for me'
UW Madison Professor, Chloe Grace Hart, discusses her path as a sociologist, and her research on Cornell Greek-life culture during her time as an undergrad Soc major.
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Dual-campus visit highlights A.D. White Professors-at-Large lineup
Best-selling writer and technology blogger Cory Doctorow will make the A.D. White Professor-at-Large program’s second dual-campus visit, ending his week at Cornell Tech in New York City. Four other professors will visit Cornell this fall.
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Giving to the Department of Sociology
Unrestricted gifts, no matter what the amount, help support every facet of the Cornell Sociology Department. Gifts may also be designated to support a specific area of the the department's activities.
You can make a gift online at Cornell's Alumni, Parents & Friends page here.