Visiting Scholars Program Lecture Series: W.E.B. Du Bois - Critical Engagement vs. Public Sociology

W.E.B. Du Bois is often viewed as a “public sociologist,” but public sociology has been defined by its relationship to professional, policy &critical sociology, part of an “introverted” academic discipline. Du Bois’ marginalization/withdrawal/expulsion from the academy led to an “extraverted sociology” of critical engagement, more akin to sociology of the global south. The changing sociology of Du Bois can be attributed to his engagement in the politics of a changing world.