American Sociological Association

Overview

The American Sociological Association (ASA) is a professional organization dedicated to advancing the study and critique of society through Sociology. Founded in 1905, it has become one of the largest and most influential social scientific organizations in the United States.

History

The ASA was established during a time of great change in American society, marked by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and immigration. Sociologists like William Graham Sumner, George E. Douglas, and Charles Horton Cooley recognized the need for a professional organization to promote the study and understanding of social phenomena.

In 1905, the ASA was officially founded on September 19th in New York City, with an initial Membership of twenty-five individuals from various academic institutions. The first president of the ASA was William Graham Sumner, who played a crucial role in shaping the organization’s early years.

Mission and Objectives

The American Sociological Association is committed to advancing the study and critique of society through Sociology. Its mission includes:

  • Promoting the advancement of Social Science Research and education
  • Supporting sociological scholarship and criticism
  • Providing opportunities for professional development and networking among Members
  • Advocating for the rights and interests of sociologists and their communities

The ASA’s objectives include:

  • To promote a greater understanding of social phenomena through rigorous scientific inquiry
  • To foster collaboration and exchange between sociologists from diverse backgrounds and disciplines
  • To provide a platform for sociological Research and discussion to be presented at conferences, publications, and other events
  • To advocate for the importance of Sociology in addressing social issues and promoting positive change

Structure and Membership

The American Sociological Association is a non-profit organization with over 15,000 Members worldwide. Members include:

  • Academics from various institutions
  • Practitioners from diverse fields (e.g., government, business, healthcare)
  • Graduate students and postdoctoral researchers
  • Social workers, policymakers, and other professionals

Membership Benefits include:

Activities and Initiatives

The American Sociological Association is involved in a wide range of activities and initiatives, including:

  • The ASA Annual Meeting: A premier event showcasing recent Research and debates in Sociology
  • Sociological Research Briefs: A series of publications highlighting new developments and methodologies in the field
  • The ASA Section on Race and Ethnicity: A working group focused on addressing issues related to racial and ethnic diversity
  • The ASA Committee for Social Change: A Committee advocating for Social Justice and policy reform

Criticisms and Controversies

The American Sociological Association has faced criticisms and controversies over the years, including:

  • Allegations of bias towards certain fields or disciplines (e.g., environmental Sociology)
  • Accusations of promoting a “critical” approach that emphasizes opposition to existing power structures
  • Concerns about the organization’s financial management and accountability

Despite these challenges, the ASA remains committed to advancing the field of Sociology and promoting Social Justice.

Conclusion

The American Sociological Association is a premier professional organization dedicated to promoting the study and critique of society through Sociology. Founded in 1905, it has grown into one of the largest and most influential social scientific organizations in the United States. Through its various activities, initiatives, and publications, the ASA continues to play an essential role in shaping our understanding of social phenomena and promoting positive change.

References

  • American Sociological Association. (n.d.). About Us.
  • Sumner, W. G. (1905). The Sociology of Industrial Organization: A Study in Economic Development. New York: Macmillan.
  • Cooley, C. H. (1912). Principles of Social Economics. St. Louis: Murray.
  • Douglas, G. E. (1926). Society: Its Forms and Functions. New York: Macmillan.

Note: The references provided are a selection of sources used in the writing of this article. They are not an exhaustive list, but rather a representative sampling of the relevant literature.