Research

Sociology is the scientific study of social life. Sociologists study the structure of societies as well as how they change and interact with one another and impact individuals within them.  They study a broad array of topics including the family, crime, politics, race, gender, and social class. They use methods such as statistical analysis, survey research, ethnography, and content analysis. The results of sociological studies help develop new theories and inform social policy, programs, and laws.

Anthropology is the study of what makes us human. To understand the full sweep and complexity of cultures across all of human history, anthropology draws and builds upon knowledge from the social and biological sciences as well as the humanities and physical sciences.  Some anthropologists consider what makes up our biological bodies and genetics, as well as our bones, diet, and health. Others look to the past to see how human groups lived hundreds or thousands of years ago and what was important to them. Around the world, they observe communities as they exist today, to understand the practices of different groups of people from an insider’s perspective. And they study how people use language, make meaning, and organize social action in all social groups and contexts.