Sociology Looks at the Arts

Sociology Looks at the Arts is intended as a concise yet nuanced introduction to the sociology of art. This book will provide a foundation for teaching and discussing a range of questions and perspectives used by sociologists who study the relationship between the arts ? including music, performing arts, visual arts, literature, film and new media ? and society.

1. How and when did our current understanding of "art" as a special category of human activity and experience emerge? 2. What has social theory had to say about the arts? 3. How do sociologists "do" the sociology of art? 4. What does the field look like today?

Julia Rothenberg is an assistant professor of sociology at Queensborough Community College.