Abstract
Ever wonder why sociology emphasizes fieldwork, quantitative research, and participant observation? Or who challenged the notion of the ‘armchair theorist’? In recognizing Black History Month, we pay homage to the often ignored, great modern sociologist, W.E.B. Du Bois. Using the book, The Scholar Denied: W.E.B. Du Bois and the Birth of Modern Sociology (2015) by Dr. Aldon D. Morris, we discuss the legacy and contribution of Du Bois and retell the story of the origins of modern sociology. While faculty and students are gradually incorporating the work of Du Bois in their research and syllabi, the overall discipline of sociology has not yet fully acknowledged Du Bois’ work and contribution as the father of modern American sociology. Tune in to hear the convo!
“Be honest, frank and fearless and get some grasp of the real values of life…READ SOME GOOD, HEAVY SERIOUS BOOKS just for discipline: Take yourself in hand and master yourself.” -W.E.B. Du Bois [emphasis added].
Transcript
You can find the transcript for this episode here! Huge mahalo to Elena Milusheva for volunteering to transcribe. We truly appreciate it!
Keywords
Black History Month, Du Bois, double consciousness, social sciences, sociology
Sources
- The Scholar Denied: W.E.B. Du Bois and the Birth of Modern Sociology by Aldon D. Morris
- The Philadelphia Negro (Du Bois 1899)
- Souls of Black Folk [Double Consciousness] (Du Bois 1903)
- Short animated video on Souls of Black Folk
- Lecture from Aldon D. Morris: W.E.B. Du Bois at the Center: From Science, Civil Rights Movement, to Black Lives Matter (2016)
- Current issue of the sociology journal titled, Sociology of Race and Ethnicity. This issue features several studies focusing on Du Bois. At the very least, check out the abstracts!
- Du Bois and Race Conflict: Crash Course