Blogs

Discusses the development of social ecological theory, and provides a primer for broader discussion of Social Disorganization, and its application to other incidents and contexts of deviance.

Today we are concluding our theory ‘primer’ and moving into our first case study of what many criminologists and theorists call “minor” or “routine” deviance. We will be considering the subculture of Star Trek fans, commonly called Trekkies or Trekkers (see discussion debating difference). This is an interesting first foray into the idea of subculture – and in particular, the expansion of subcultural behaviors. This type of fandom also raises questions about deviance. Are Trekkies deviant?

This video recaps items covered in class on January 28th, especially theoretical paradigms, classical criminology, positivism and social constructionist theory. Looking for the password? You can get it via eLearning within the video folder, or in class.

As discussed in our very first introductory class, the idea of deviance is one that is variably defined and understood. If you survey the host of (often simplistic) definitions offered by textbooks, dictionaries and other resources, this will be come evident immediately.

Of course, the whole point of studying the incidence of deviant behavior over the course of this term, is to understand how deviance is a living concept, one that is constantly changing and evolving based on social contexts. So a glossary definition simply would not suffice anyhow.

I've been working on perfecting my own photography skills , and trying to move into other areas of photography and video creation. To now, I've only done my own experimental video "stuff" and have no used a terribly HQ video capture camera - relying mostly on SLR video that "happens to exist" and (at family events etc...) using my trusty, and surprisingly sharp CoolPix P-N-S.

President Obama has called on Presidents Bush and Clinton to assist in raising funds, awareness and hopes in Haiti. Please watch the following video that details some of things Americans can do to assist. You may also choose to watch this John King State of the Union interview with both Presidents .

The recent disastrous earthquake in Haiti has many of us asking How can we Help? Those of us who have worked with NGO's know the incredible task that is ahead . We also know the earnest impulse to help, and the generosity of people everywhere, can create just as significant a challenge.

As some of you know, being an Assistant Director for support, my avocation is computer nerd. Recently, my university gave us the option to move from Exchange to Google Mail and Google Calendar as part of the university's hosted suite of Google Apps . As I began to migrate the (literally) thousands of messages I had from Exchange to Google, I found little online in the way of directions - so I decided to add this tip to my blog - for anyone else that may be doing the same.

Mary Daly, undoubtedly one of the most influential feminist authors and educators has passed away.

Please listen to All Things Considered's remembrance of Daly , which highlights both her profound impact on feminist thought and feminist movements, and some of the more controversial aspects of her notable career.