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The article discusses an academic paper written by T.L. Taylor entitled "Play Between Worlds: Exploring Online Game Culture." The paper presents a study of the massively multiplayer online game EverQuest, analyzing the social systems at work among those who play the game, and how they affect interactions within the game.

The article presents information on the annual meeting of the American Sociological Association in San Antonio, Texas, where two sociologists from the People's Republic of China presented a paper on a 1983 survey of 1,000 households in Tianjin, China which showed a sign of the rebirth of sociology in china. The participation of sociologists Wang Hui and Pan Yuankang reflected the intellectual exchange between China and the U.S.

The article reports that sociology was being accused of being "grossly derelict in a paper presented at the annual meeting of the American Sociological Association held in Boston, Massachusetts. University of Iowa associate professor Hallowell Pope issued a called for greatly increased research on methods of teaching sociology to undergraduates.

The article presents a profile of the public sociologist and digital theorist Richard Sennett. An overview of Sennett's work on the social constructions of technology in the 21st century and their impact on communication and human relationships is provided. Several book titles published by Sennett are reviewed and summarized, highlighting his analysis of digital networking and the formation of modern culture. Connections between Sennett and media and communication scholar Gabriella Coleman are also discussed.

Discusses the underdevelopment of sociology as a science and presents proposals designed to curb autonomy and build theory in the profession. Formulation of research agendas; Suggestion that the master of sociology thesis replicate an existing piece of research; Benefits of encouraging dissertations to be continuations of previous work rather than original ideas.

Auburn University has settled its dispute with a tenured professor concerning grades given to students in "directed reading" courses that were viewed as too high. The university will end dismissal proceedings against Thomas A. Petee, a sociology professor and former chairman of the sociology department, who was thought to have given high grades to students, including many student athletes. Under the terms of the settlement, Petee will retain his tenured professorship and an annual salary of about $90,000, but will not return to the classroom, according to the article.

Presents the author's view on sociology. Belief that sociology was the best way to change the world; Commitment of the sociologists to engagement with the world; Reference to his passion for sociology as well as for feminism.

Presents ideas concerning higher education. Purpose of the field trips undergone by sociology students at Illinois Wesleyan University; Comment from a student on the lesson she learned from interacting with people in the community; Sociology books read by students.

Details the content of the seminar titled "The Seventies -- More Than an In-Between Decade" at the Wheeling Jesuit University in West Virginia. Comments from C. James Goodwin, a professor of psychology and coordinator for the seminar; Reading list for the seminar.

Focuses on the social acceptance of freeways in California. Discussion on freeways as a symbol of U.S. individualism, potent youth culture and the economy of private affluence; Value of the state's freeway infrastructure; Details on how freeways modify behavior of residents.