UC sociology faculty to edit journal 'Social Problems'

By: John(na) Jackson

Associate professor Annulla Linders and professor Earl Wright II of the University of Cincinnati sociology department have assumed editing responsibilities of the academic journal Social Problems – a quarterly, peer-reviewed journal published by Oxford University Press. The official publication of the professional organization The Society for the Study of Social Problems (SSSP), the journal Social Problems has been in circulation since 1953, and is one of the leading—and most-read—sociology journals in the US.

Articles published in Social Problems demonstrate a dedication to both high-quality research and social justice advancements. Linders describes the journal contents as “stories that matter.” The field is “experiencing a renaissance,” Wright adds, and this development highlights UC as a leader in publishing progressive social justice research.

Social Problems features a wide range of areas of interest to both SSSP members and the larger community of sociologists and other social scientists. Topics include research around race, class, disability and gender inequality, social movements and resistance, and more. 

Inspired by a dual commitment to equality and inclusion and excellence in scholarship, Linders and Wright have assembled a strong editorial team that brings a broad range of expertise and comes from a wide range of institutions—from state to Ivy League. They also work with a student advisory board that provides PhD students from across the nation invaluable insights into the world of publishing. The journal also uses three graduate assistants, who gain not only publishing insights but also opportunities to enrich their professional networks.  

The journal transferred to UC Sociology from the University of Houston, and will stay at UC for three years. During this time, Linders and Wright plan to publish a special issue on scholarship sponsored by W.E.B. DuBois, who they say epitomizes the ambition of both SSSP and the journal to support scholarship inspired by a commitment to social justice.