We are writing this letter to request your assistance in creating a sociology textbook for American students. The work examines American society and culture from an “outsiders” standpoint. It is often the case that outsiders have insights overlooked by those born and raised in a country. Moreover, in the wake of recent events, many Americans are reflecting on how they are viewed by members of other societies, but have inadequate information.

As a member of the International Sociological Association we are asking for your help in identifying one or more non-American authors who have published analytical insights and commentary pertaining to some aspect(s)of the domestic American social, cultural, economic or political environment. Writings can address such aspects as social stratification, political participation, criminal surveillance and justice, gender relations, race and ethnic relations, mass transit, moral issues, the environment, education or religion – to name a few.

On the other hand, writings could address similar issues related to American influence in other lands – particularly Africa. Issues might involve genocide in Rwanda or Sudan, human trafficking and chattel slavery, U.S. intervention in Somalia, AIDS policies, South African civil rights, labor conditions, tribal relocation, oil development, sub-Saharan desertification, wildlife conservation, tourism, neoliberalism, gender issues, political and economic instability, or counter-terrorism – again, to name but a few.

Our primary intent is to embed sociologically informed materials from a variety of sources (journal articles, paper presentations, newspaper commentary, etc.) within the text. Author observations may be either critical or supportive, a product of direct or indirect experience acquired while inside the U.S.A. or out, and on a case study or comparative basis. While writing style and format are secondary, literature should be written in English.

Please forward this email to any non-U.S.-based social scientists, journalists, or other writers that have written such pieces and might be willing to contribute. Thank you in advance for assisting us with our project.

Sincerely,

Alan R. Smith, M.S. and Michael C. Hoover, Ph.D.
Missouri Western State College
Department of Government, Social Work and Sociology
St. Joseph, Missouri U.S.A. 64506
Tel. 816-271-4340