About Contexts

Contexts, peer-reviewed and published quarterly, offers a smartly written, thought-provoking take on modern life in our communities—it’s an indispensable guide to understanding our dynamic society.

Contexts takes our favorite newspapers and magazines one step further, answering the “Why does that happen?” question with the research and experience of the best sociologists in the United States. Both the educated lay reader and those in sociology and its related fields find the articles captivating.

The magazine includes feature articles, culture and book reviews, photography, as well as summaries of the latest findings from social science research and news within the field.

Who Should Read Contexts?

• Anyone interested in sociological trends, social change, and the implications of sociological knowledge for policy and public debate
• Teachers, students, journalists, civil servants and policy makers seeking out important developments in social research
• Social and behavioral scientists interested in the cross-fertilization of ideas and creative new thinking
• All sociologists who wish to remain current and engaged with findings across the field

In each issue of Contexts you’ll find:

• The best sociological ideas and research
• Fresh perspectives, clear, concise thinking and jargon-free reporting
• A though-provoking look at modern life

The American Sociological Association (ASA), founded in 1905, is a non-profit membership association dedicated to advancing sociology as a scientific discipline and profession serving the public good. With nearly 15,000 members, ASA encompasses sociologists who are faculty members at colleges and universities, researchers, practitioners, and students. About 20 percent of the members work in government, business, or non-profit organizations. ASA hosts an annual meeting with more than 6,000 participants and publishes 10 professional journals and magazines.

As the national organization for sociologists, ASA, through its Executive Office, is well positioned to provide a unique set of services to its members and to promote the vitality, visibility, and diversity of the discipline. Working at the national and international levels, ASA aims to articulate policy and implement programs likely to have the broadest possible impact for sociology now and in the future.