Sociological Images: Blogging as Public Sociology. (April 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wade, Lisa; Sharp, Gwen
• Is Part Of: Social science computer review. Volume 31:Number 2(2013)
• Page Start: 221
• Page End: 228
• Publication Date: 2013-04
• Subjects: public sociology -- blogging -- teaching -- Internet -- social networking -- academia; Social sciences -- Data processing -- Periodicals; Computers -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Microcomputers -- Periodicals; Sciences sociales -- Informatique -- Périodiques; Micro-ordinateurs -- Périodiques; 300.285
• DOI: 10.1177/0894439312442356
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0894-4393

Abstract

Sociological Images is a website aimed at a broad public audience that encourages readers to develop and apply a sociological imagination. The site includes short, accessible posts published daily. Each includes one or more images and accompanying commentary. Reaching approximately 20, 000 readers per day, Sociological Images illustrates the potential for using websites as a platform for public engagement in the social sciences. This report provides an overview of the site's history, approach, reach, and impact. The authors also discuss some challenges facing academics interested in blogging for a general audience and some of the features that contribute to the popularity of the site.