Policy Press Sociologists' Tales: Contemporary Narratives on Sociological Thought and Practice

What is sociology? Why is it important? Sociologists Tales is the first book to offer a unique window into the thoughts and experiences of key UK sociologists from different generations, many internationally recognised, asking what sociology means to them. It reveals the changing context of sociology and how this has shaped their practice. Providing a valuable insight into why sociology is so fascinating, it gives advice to those wanting to study or develop a career in sociology reflecting on why the contributors chose their career, how they have managed to do it and what advice they would offer the next generation. This unique volume provides an understanding of sociology and its importance, and will have wide appeal among students, young sociologists thinking about their future and professional sociologists alike. Review "A remarkable book joining together the guilty pleasure of the higher gossip with genuinely powerful self-reflection--bluntly, hard to put down." --John Hall, McGill University, Canada "A richly textured collection of reflections that provides a useful reminder of the potential for sociologists to contribute to a better understanding of our societies in these troubled times." --John Solomos, University of Warwick, UK "A valuable collection for anyone interested in sociology; as a subject to study at school or university, as a field of research, or as a way of life." --John David Horne, University of Central Lancashire, UK "Recommended."--Y. R. Magrass, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth "Choice" "Sociology is not just a career or a discipline but a vocation and way of thinking, and Sociologists' Tales conveys this movingly at a time of increasing university neoliberalism."--Y. R. Magrass, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth "British Journal of Sociology" "A fascinating and wide ranging collection, the book weaves a rich tapestry of narratives which together tell the story of a very British sociological imagination."--Claire Alexander, University of Manchester, UK "Immensely beneficial for students studying sociology at A-level and for teachers attempting to enthuse their students to maintain a passion for the discipline."--Jayne Kumi, Norbury Manor Business and Enterprise College, UK "These excellent reflections on sociologists' lives tell an often inspiring, sometimes sobering tale. A must-read for novices and seasoned scholars alike."--Kathy Charmaz, Sonoma State University "While focusing on British sociology--and sociologists--this inspiring book takes stock of international debate on the discipline and its future. A brilliant celebration of sociology. Highly recommended."--Carmen Leccardi, University of Milano-Bicocca, Italy "What a delicious, down-to-earth collection of essays, offering exciting adventures in, through, and beyond sociology. They show how, deep-down, everyone is a sociologist but what a privilege it is to do sociology for a living."--Michael Burawoy, University of California, Berkeley About the Author Katherine Twamley is John Adams Research Fellow at the Social Science Research Unit, University College London. Her research focuses on intimacy, parenting, health and sociology of the family. Mark Doidge is a research fellow in the School of Sport and Service Management at the University of Brighton. He researches extensively on political activism in football fandom. Andrea Scott is a senior lecturer in the Sport Development and Management Department at the University of Chichester. Her research interests largely relate to healthcare practices in sport. The three editors are convenors of the British Sociological Association Early Career Forum.