Problem-Solving Sociology

Problem-solving sociology uses sociological insights and ideas to solve social problems, and uses the solving of social problems to advance sociological theory.  See this brief introduction and this theoretical discussion, order the book, or watch a book talk.


We currently run the following initiatives:


To subscribe to our mailing list, click hereContact Monica Prasad if you would like to start a new reading group or discussion group or conference or workshop or other initiative under the problem-solving umbrella.

Upcoming Events

(To share your work, sign up for the PSS Virtual Coffee Hour or the Problem-Solving Ethnography workshop.)


April 22, 2025 at 10am Pacific time/1pm Eastern time/19:00 CEST1pm EST

Problem-Solving Ethnography Workshop with David Joseph-Goteiner

Sustaining Effort as a Survey Taker via Work Games: Distraction and Traction


April 25, 2025 at 1pm EST

JHU Center on Global Poverty/ASA Sociology of Development event 

The Attack on USAID

Please join us for a discussion of what happened, why, and where we go from here.  


Date & Time: TBD

ASA Section on Sociology of Development

Problem-Solving Sociology of Development

Mirta Toledo, "Pure Diversity"