Sociology as a Practice in Humanity: Noam Chomsky,Howard Zinn,and Social Responsibility 1

Abstract

This paper presents sociology as a practice in humanity, whose members have a social responsibility to engage in work contributing to social progress and reform. In lieu of viewing sociology as praxis, sociologists frequently adhere to the hegemony of a conventional pedagogy, an “objective” scientific orientation, and an institutional view of scholarship that confines further positive impact on students and communities. The ramifications are myriad, including a divisive milieu within the discipline. Identified and explored is a missing link: a discipline-oriented model synthesizing intellectualism, teaching, and activism. An intervening model external to sociology, accentuating dissent, is presented from case studies of linguist and social critic Noam Chomsky and historian Howard Zinn, reflecting the potential and importance of sociology to contribute meaningfully in our society. Wedding theory and praxis, the case studies reexamine current sociological ideology and punctuate social responsibility among practitioners through institutional transformation.