The Evolving State of Policy Sociology

The Evolving State of Policy Sociology explores the dynamic and debated field of policy sociology within educational research. Edited by policy sociologist, Glenn C. Savage, this collection features reflections from scholars with varying histories in policy sociology research, including Jenny Ozga and Stephen Ball, whose work has been foundational to the establishment of the field. The book examines the origins, evolution, and current state of policy sociology, delving into the diverse theoretical, methodological, and empirical approaches that have shaped its history. Readers are provoked to consider what defines policy sociology, the impacts of globalisation on policy research, what distinguishes policy sociology from related interdisciplinary approaches, and the meanings and practices of criticality that have infused the field since its inception. Offering a range of compelling perspectives, this book is a valuable resource for both new and experienced researchers seeking to understand the past, present, and future of policy sociology in education. It was originally published as a special issue of Critical Studies in Education.

Glenn C. Savage is policy sociologist with expertise in education reform, federalism and the future of schooling. He is a Professor of Education Futures at the Faculty of Education, University of Melbourne.

Introduction: The evolving state of policy sociology 1. Problematising policy: the development of (critical) policy sociology 2. The politics of critical policy sociology: mobilities, moorings and elite networks 3. The turn towards policy mobilities and the theoretical-methodological implications for policy sociology 4. Multiple temporalities in critical policy sociology in education 5. Digital policy sociology: software and science in data-intensive precision education 6. Hypermodernity, automated uncertainty, and education policy trajectories 7. Response: Policy? Policy research? How absurd? 8. Response: Matters of (im)mobility: beyond fast conceptual and methodological readings in policy sociology