R. Sooryamoorthy - Böcker

The Oxford Handbook of the Sociology of Africa presents to a broad readership an accessible, comprehensive, up to date, and topical comparative analysis of sociological thinking in Africa. Sociological discourse about African societies has been challenging and difficult, due to a lack of both comprehensive analyses and holistic sociological evidence that covers Africa from past to present times. This Handbook brings together latest analyses of sociological phenomena from the best scholars working on numerous thematic areas. It provides contributions that locates African sociological thinking in historical context and takes a critical look at its current manifestations across the continent. This collection builds upon an existing body of literature which has demonstrated that while the analysis of African societies has long been an item on the agenda of sociologists worldwide, advances of the decolonial critique made notably by African scholars in Africa enhances the scholarship of the sociology of Africa. Thus, the collection is premised upon the understanding that in order to understand the sociology of Africa as significant intervention, the participation and representation of African ways of knowing and doing is a critical starting point. This Handbook comprises a series of scholarly and interdisciplinary perspectives on current debates over how best to unpack sociological imaginations in African context. The scholarly contributions, therefore, are based on both perspectives illustrating the importance of specificity in sociological phenomenon. The Handbook is arranged in seven parts: Context and Perspectives; Race, Ethnicity, and Religion; Gender, Sexuality, and Intersectionality; Medical Sociology: Political Economy and Development; Crime and Violence; and The Family and Education. Premised on the importance of African ways of knowing and doing, these chapters offer sociologists, researchers, and students an invaluable starting point for a fuller understanding of African sociology.

Focusing on NGOs that work in the areas of rural development, women, and children, the authors' goal is to shed light on the contributions of the sector in the spheres of social welfare, empowerment, service, and rural development. In addition, the problems and difficulties experienced by NGOs are analyzed and explained. This important new book traces the rise of NGOs in India and their transformation over the years, revealing the importance of NGOs in India's development after Independence.Beginning with a detailed history of voluntarism in India and examination of NGOs around the world, the authors provide the framework for examining NGOs in India as a force contributing to development. They then focus on partnerships and cooperation between NGOs and the government, advocacy and policy implications of NGO activity, accountability within organizations, approaches to problems and delivery of services, NGO life cycles, and the need for a code of ethics within NGOs. Case studies on NGOs designed to assist women, children, and rural development are presented and discussed in the context of development in general and improving the quality of life for all Indian citizens. This careful and comprehensive examination is a unique addition to a growing field of literature on India.

Scientometrics for the Humanities and Social Sciences is the first ever book on scientometrics that deals with the historical development of both quantitative and qualitative data analysis in scientometric studies. It focuses on its applicability in new and emerging areas of inquiry. This important book presents the inherent potential for data mining and analysis of qualitative data in scientometrics. The author provides select cases of scientometric studies in the humanities and social sciences, explaining their research objectives, sources of data and methodologies. It illustrates how data can be gathered not only from prominent online databases and repositories, but also from journals that are not stored in these databases. With the support of specific examples, the book shows how data on demographic variables can be collected to supplement scientometric data. The book deals with a research methodology which has an increasing applicability not only to the study of science, but also to the study of the disciplines in the humanities and social sciences.

Scientometrics for the Humanities and Social Sciences is the first ever book on scientometrics that deals with the historical development of both quantitative and qualitative data analysis in scientometric studies. It focuses on its applicability in new and emerging areas of inquiry. This important book presents the inherent potential for data mining and analysis of qualitative data in scientometrics. The author provides select cases of scientometric studies in the humanities and social sciences, explaining their research objectives, sources of data and methodologies. It illustrates how data can be gathered not only from prominent online databases and repositories, but also from journals that are not stored in these databases. With the support of specific examples, the book shows how data on demographic variables can be collected to supplement scientometric data. The book deals with a research methodology which has an increasing applicability not only to the study of science, but also to the study of the disciplines in the humanities and social sciences.

Managing Water and Water Users offers an answer to the question of why Kerala, India remains a water-scarce region despite having regular and adequate rainfall. The papers presented in this volume deal with the multifarious aspects of conservation, management, and sharing of water resources. Fundamentally, the State does not have a sufficient scientific database, the most important thing in the scientific management of Kerala's water resources. The economics of the rural water supply in Kerala are clearly delineated in this research.

Drawing on insights from across Africa, this book investigates the discourses and practices that guide doctoral training today.Higher education is regarded as key for driving development and innovation, creating an informed knowledge base equipped to tackle local and global challenges. For too long external forces defined education in the continent, but now African countries are revitalising higher education, designing doctoral training to fit distinctly African needs and contexts. This book investigates the history, present and future potential of doctoral training on international, regional, national and institutional levels. Bringing together expertise from both research and practice, the book analyses the frameworks and structures of the doctoral phase, and how institutions, supervisors, mentors and young scholars meet the challenges of training in real life. The book covers issues such as access to education, proactive recruitment, funding issues, practitioner expertise, enrolment and drop-out, across a range of countries including South Africa, Mozambique, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Benin, Ghana and Morocco.This book will be a rich resource for higher education administrators and policy makers, as well as researchers and academics with an interest in higher education in Africa.

Drawing on insights from across Africa, this book investigates the discourses and practices that guide doctoral training today.Higher education is regarded as key for driving development and innovation, creating an informed knowledge base equipped to tackle local and global challenges. For too long external forces defined education in the continent, but now African countries are revitalising higher education, designing doctoral training to fit distinctly African needs and contexts. This book investigates the history, present and future potential of doctoral training on international, regional, national and institutional levels. Bringing together expertise from both research and practice, the book analyses the frameworks and structures of the doctoral phase, and how institutions, supervisors, mentors and young scholars meet the challenges of training in real life. The book covers issues such as access to education, proactive recruitment, funding issues, practitioner expertise, enrolment and drop-out, across a range of countries including South Africa, Mozambique, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Benin, Ghana and Morocco.This book will be a rich resource for higher education administrators and policy makers, as well as researchers and academics with an interest in higher education in Africa.

This edited volume focuses on the changing research methodologies in social science research, prompted by the new social world shaped by the pandemic. It explores adaptations and developments to meet the demands of transforming social circumstances and showcases innovative alternative approaches.Featuring a range of international and interdisciplinary contributors who discuss the context of social science research in the "new normal", the book sets out the need to redesign research to address present-day challenges for the post-pandemic. Chapters share methodological innovations and demonstrate how applicable these new and adapted methodologies are to a world post-pandemic, discussing a wide range of innovative, digital-first research methods with practical analysis. The role of technology and its application in social science research during this transition is explored in particular, alongside new approaches to quantitative and qualitative research that feature innovations in ethnography, online data collection, and ethical protocols for research.Ultimately offering a comprehensive exploration of adaptive and innovative social science research methodologies suited to the current social context, the book will be relevant to researchers, academics, and scholars in the fields of research methods, research technologies, and the sociology of education.

This edited volume focuses on the changing research methodologies in social science research, prompted by the new social world shaped by the pandemic. It explores adaptations and developments to meet the demands of transforming social circumstances and showcases innovative alternative approaches.Featuring a range of international and interdisciplinary contributors who discuss the context of social science research in the "new normal", the book sets out the need to redesign research to address present-day challenges for the post-pandemic. Chapters share methodological innovations and demonstrate how applicable these new and adapted methodologies are to a world post-pandemic, discussing a wide range of innovative, digital-first research methods with practical analysis. The role of technology and its application in social science research during this transition is explored in particular, alongside new approaches to quantitative and qualitative research that feature innovations in ethnography, online data collection, and ethical protocols for research.Ultimately offering a comprehensive exploration of adaptive and innovative social science research methodologies suited to the current social context, the book will be relevant to researchers, academics, and scholars in the fields of research methods, research technologies, and the sociology of education.

This book considers how methodologies, theories and analytical frameworks from gender studies can be applied to African societies’ cultural, social, and historical contexts.The book advocates for the importance of feminist research practices which highlight women and their lived experiences within a gendered world in Africa. Gender studies has grown in prominence over recent decades, rooted in an awareness that gender is no longer just an issue in the margins but core to the analysis of the interaction of power, identity, and social relations in the world. This book considers how the field can evolve further in a postcolonial context, integrating indigenous and local knowledge systems and practices. Covering how gender is contested in African settings, the book outlines how researchers can approach the ways in which social and racial categories, class, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status intersect to produce gender-based violence.Overall, this book shows how gender-sensitive methodologies can help researchers to gain deeper insights into discrimination, inequalities, and gender-based violence, and thus contribute to better-adapted social and legal reforms.

Within a short period of time, South Africa has made remarkable progress in the adoption of mobile and Internet technologies. In this landmark study, R. Sooryamoorthy examines the development of communication patterns, social contacts and networks in South Africa. Based on pioneering quantitative and qualitative data, he analyses trends in changing media use in Africa, showing the development of the use of new media for communication by South Africans of all ages, races and genders in relation to the development of media infrastructure, its cost and government policy. It shows how people use the media for communication purposes that affirm or break their social contacts and networks, and how they apply media to establish, re-establish or maintain social relationships. This book will be of interest to those researching the growth of communication technology in Africa, as well as those involved in the wider fields of development studies and economics.

Since gaining political independence in the 1950s, science has rapidly become a prerequisite for national development within many African nations. Supported by international agencies, such as UNESCO, initiatives were taken to direct Africa on the road of scientific development, enabling contributions to world science and significant progress in many specific research areas. However, from a developmental perspective there remains the question of how science influences national development plans and strategies. How far are science policies integrated into the national development plans? What potential and challenges do science and technology pose for Africa and its prospects for wider development? Offering a comprehensive historical and empirical study of science in both colonial and post-colonial Africa, R. Sooryamoorthy brings to light the connections between science, policy and development in African nations. Focusing on understanding the widening gap in science and technology between developed and developing regions, and the integration (or lack of) with national development strategies, this study provides important insights into the potential opportunities and challenges facing Africa in the areas of science.

Since gaining political independence in the 1950s, science has rapidly become a prerequisite for national development within many African nations. Supported by international agencies, such as UNESCO, initiatives were taken to direct Africa on the road of scientific development, enabling contributions to world science and significant progress in many specific research areas. However, from a developmental perspective there remains the question of how science influences national development plans and strategies. How far are science policies integrated into the national development plans? What potential and challenges do science and technology pose for Africa and its prospects for wider development? Offering a comprehensive historical and empirical study of science in both colonial and post-colonial Africa, R. Sooryamoorthy brings to light the connections between science, policy and development in African nations. Focusing on understanding the widening gap in science and technology between developed and developing regions, and the integration (or lack of) with national development strategies, this study provides important insights into the potential opportunities and challenges facing Africa in the areas of science.

This book is essential for anyone interested in knowing how science works nationally and internationally in the contemporary world. It offers a comprehensive analysis of scientific collaboration and its relation to development and the productivity of scientists, with specific reference to South Africa in both the past and the present.

Within a short period of time, South Africa has made remarkable progress in the adoption of mobile and Internet technologies. In this landmark study, R. Sooryamoorthy examines the development of communication patterns, social contacts and networks in South Africa. Based on pioneering quantitative and qualitative data, he analyses trends in changing media use in Africa, showing the development of the use of new media for communication by South Africans of all ages, races and genders in relation to the development of media infrastructure, its cost and government policy. It shows how people use the media for communication purposes that affirm or break their social contacts and networks, and how they apply media to establish, re-establish or maintain social relationships. This book will be of interest to those researching the growth of communication technology in Africa, as well as those involved in the wider fields of development studies and economics.

This book is essential for anyone interested in knowing how science works nationally and internationally in the contemporary world. It offers a comprehensive analysis of scientific collaboration and its relation to development and the productivity of scientists, with specific reference to South Africa in both the past and the present.

Sex and sexuality are prominent features within families. Given the many issues associated with sex and sexuality there is a need for a more comprehensive understanding of sex and sexuality within the family context.This compelling collection offers a deep dive into the diverse and complex issues surrounding sex, sexuality, and family dynamics across different cultures and societies. From the marital aspirations of sexual minority transgender young adults to the evolving intimacies of Indian women, each chapter provides a unique perspective on how personal and societal factors shape sexual identities and relationships. The book also examines the intersection of religion, politics, and sexuality, exploring topics such as the views of religiously conservative Christians on adolescent sex, toxic masculinity among Generation Z undergraduates, and the impact of dominant conservative socializing agents on attitudes toward same-sex adoption. Other chapters delve into the long-term effects of adverse childhood experiences on sexual health, survival mechanisms for identity management in Zimbabwe, and the challenges faced by gay and lesbian parents in Ireland. Additionally, the collection addresses cultural taboos in Turkey, the role of social media in sex education, and the support needs of parents in Italy.By breaking the silence on these critical issues, Sex and Sexuality within the Family Context provides valuable insights for scholars interested in understanding the intricate connections between sex, sexuality, and family life.

This book is about sociologies around the world. Viewed from a global perspective, this research-based study examines the world of sociology and its global features and trends. Sociology as a discipline has a history of two centuries which has varied between countries. Its presence across the world is felt more than ever. Over the years, sociology has been established as a discipline and contributed to the advancement of knowledge about society through scientific research. This facilitated the development of knowledge in other areas and disciplines as well. What sociology is doing globally, the contributions it has made to the knowledge of society and social phenomena, and the direction in which it is moving are of interest to both academics and the public. Specifically, the book deals with the trends in sociology; the broad and general areas of fields, subfields and research areas; the prominent, flourishing, emerging and/or declining areas of sociology; the origin of sociological knowledge; geographical regions and countries; the characteristics of global sociology in terms of language, research methodology, disciplinary backgrounds, interdisciplinarity and authorship; the relationships between the country of affiliation of authors and research areas; the effects of gender of the author and its interrelationships with the discipline, department, research areas and collaboration. The book will be an important resource for students, teachers, practitioners, researchers and the public.

Dieses Buch ist der erste umfassende Bericht über die Geschichte und den aktuellen Stand der südafrikanischen Soziologie. Es bietet ein ganzheitliches Bild des Fachs, wie es an den Universitäten gelehrt wird, und zeigt die Entwicklung einer Disziplin in einem schwierigen soziopolitischen Kontext auf. Anhand historischer und wissenschaftlicher Daten wird aufgezeigt, wie die sich verändernde politische Situation - vom Kolonialismus über die Apartheid bis hin zur Demokratie - Art, Richtung und Schwerpunkte der soziologischen Forschung im Lande beeinflusst hat. Der Autor zeigt, wie die Soziologie während der Apartheid-Ära beruflich zersplittert und entlang von Sprach- und Rassengrenzen geteilt war. Mit der Einführung der Demokratie im Jahr 1994 konnte sie jedoch wieder aufblühen und hat sich zu einer einzigartigen akademischen Bewegung entwickelt. Dieses aufschlussreiche Werk richtet sich an Studierende und Wissenschaftler der Sozialwissenschaften sowie an alle, die sich für die Geschichte und Gesellschaft Südafrikas interessieren.

This book explores the connection between family structure and circumstances, parental engagement, and adolescent sexual behavior. Given that South Africa contains the highest portion of the global HIV epidemic within a single country, a comprehensive, book-length investigation into—sometimes risky—adolescent sexual behaviour is necessary. Drawing from the longitudinal Cape Area Panel Study (CAPS) of more than 4,000 adolescents between the ages of fourteen and twenty-two, as well as qualitative interviews and focus group discussions with parents and adolescents, this study pioneers empirical investigation of adolescent sexual behavior within the intricate framework of family dynamics in South Africa.

This book explores the connection between family structure and circumstances, parental engagement, and adolescent sexual behavior. Given that South Africa contains the highest portion of the global HIV epidemic within a single country, a comprehensive, book-length investigation into—sometimes risky—adolescent sexual behaviour is necessary. Drawing from the longitudinal Cape Area Panel Study (CAPS) of more than 4,000 adolescents between the ages of fourteen and twenty-two, as well as qualitative interviews and focus group discussions with parents and adolescents, this study pioneers empirical investigation of adolescent sexual behavior within the intricate framework of family dynamics in South Africa.

This book addresses a notable gap in African sociological knowledge by leveraging extensive empirical data covering all 54 African countries and drawing on historical insights from across the continent.

With short, digestible chapters, insider tips on proposal writing, and insights into the peer review process, this book serves as a step-by-step roadmap to transforming academic writing into compelling works.

This book offers a pioneering analysis of Jua Kali (a Kiswahili term meaning “under the hot sun,” referring to Kenya’s informal sector) artisans in Kenya, elucidating their vital role in the informal economy through the lens of social networks and entrepreneurial performance. By employing a sequential exploratory mixed-methods approach, it explores artisans’ lived experiences and examines how social network attributes shape the success of Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs). The book traces the evolution of Jua Kali from the 1970s to the present, situating these enterprises within Kenya’s socioeconomic landscape.Readers will discover how artisans utilise networks to overcome constraints such as limited capital, restricted market access, and regulatory hurdles. The chapters delve into the dynamics of network size, diversity, strength, and structure, revealing their impact on entrepreneurial success. The authors provide a comprehensive framework that links network attributes to the performance of SMMEs, offering insights into trust, collaboration, and market opportunities. This work advances debates in entrepreneurship and development studies, presenting actionable strategies for fostering sustainable growth in Kenya’s informal sector.Academics, policymakers, and development practitioners will find this book invaluable. It is essential reading for those interested in entrepreneurship, microenterprises, and social networks, offering a unique perspective on grassroots innovation and economic independence in developing economies.

This book is the first comprehensive account of the history and current state of South African sociology. With the support of historical and scientometric data, it demonstrates how the changing political situation, from colonialism to apartheid to democracy, has influenced the nature, direction and foci of sociological research in the country.

This book examines the trajectory of management studies in South Africa during the apartheid and post-apartheid periods.

Acknowledging that Africa relies heavily on external sources, particularly from the Global North, for scientific research, the book identifies and addresses obstacles hindering self-reliance and underscores the urgent need for revitalized partnerships and cooperation to bolster Africa's scientific autonomy.