The Sociology of Housing: How Homes Shape Our Social Lives

A landmark volume about the importance of housing in social life, Seventy-five years after Louis Wirth argued for its significance, the sociology of housing has yet to develop as a distinct subfield. This volume showcases the best traditions of sociology by tackling topics like racial segregation, housing instability, the supply of affordable housing, and the process of eviction. It will be used by researchers and students to define the subfield, map research directions, and center sociologists in interdisciplinary conversations about housing.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 28 November 2023
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

A significant and essential work on the significance of housing in social life, The Sociology of Housing delves into the complex and multifaceted aspects of this vital domain. In 1947, Louis Wirth, the esteemed president of the American Sociological Association, argued for the importance of housing as a field of sociological research, recognizing its profound impact on individuals, communities, and society as a whole. However, seventy-five years later, the sociology of housing has yet to develop as a distinct subfield, leaving the understanding of housing's place in society to other disciplines such as economics and urban planning.

To address this gap, the editors and contributors of this volume have come together to solidify the importance of housing studies within the discipline of sociology. Through a comprehensive exploration of topics such as racial segregation, housing instability, the supply of affordable housing, and the process of eviction, they showcase the rich traditions of sociology. By employing diverse methodologies, presenting unique field sites and data sources, and foregrounding a range of theoretical approaches, the authors aim to elucidate the intricate relationships between contemporary housing, public policy, and key social outcomes.

The Sociology of Housing is a groundbreaking work that will be invaluable to researchers and students alike. It serves as a definitive reference for the growing subfield, providing a comprehensive overview of current research and identifying future directions for inquiry. Moreover, the book fosters interdisciplinary conversations about housing, bringing sociologists into dialogue with experts from other fields to address the complex challenges and opportunities that arise in this critical area.

In conclusion, The Sociology of Housing is a landmark volume that underscores the importance of housing in social life. By tackling critical topics and employing innovative methodologies, the editors and contributors have made a significant contribution to the field of sociology. This book will be a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners alike, as it helps to shape our understanding of housing and its impact on individuals, communities, and society as a whole.

Dimension: 229 x 152 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226828534