Departments

Division of Department of Integrated Human Sciences Department of Sociology

We conduct multifaceted research on interactions between individuals and social structures

Sociologists investigate interactions between society and individuals from multiple angles, while also exploring the structure and changes of the society. The discipline has a certain topicality to it, which distinguishes it from other humanities and social sciences. It tackles a wide range of issues, from the micro-level problems of the self to global environmental problems.
Our department emphasizes theoretical research (new approaches to theories by Max Weber, Talcott Parsons, Jürgen Habermas, Niklas Luhmann, and Ulrich Beck; information society theory; communication theory; theory of social movements; political sociology; etc.) and practical research (community research, research on environmental problems and disasters; studies on local health care, welfare, family, and gender; etc.). We provide extensive guidance both in theoretical training (which includes, for instance, reading sources in foreign languages) and in qualitative research of social phenomena based on field surveys. You can also gain social researcher qualifications, if you finish the designated courses. Our graduates use their professional education and training in many areas and workplaces, starting with mass media and municipalities.

Teachers	NAGAI Akira KOMATSU Takeaki TASHIRO Shimon AOKI Soko
Department	Website

Message from Senior

KISARA Ami

3rd grade, Humanities and Social Sciences
High school : Sendai Seiryo Secondary School

Recommended book : Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury (trans. by Itō Norio)
Reason : Fahrenheit 451 is a science fiction novel depicting a society where books are banned by law. The punishment for illegal book possession is death by fire. The image of a world where people have willingly stopped reading and given up thinking is what makes the novel stand out, in my opinion. This fictional story about book burning gives you a chance to reflect on complicated matters such as the relationship between individuals, society, and order. It is definitely worth reading.

Highlights of the Faculty of Arts and Letters

What I like about the Faculty of Arts and Letters is that you can study whatever you want. Since there are twenty five departments at the faculty, you should be able to find the one matching your interests. Furthermore, since students join the departments only during their second year, those of you who have already selected your major can start studying in advance, while those who have not decided yet have the whole year to make up your minds. I wanted to research people’s pastimes, and selected Tohoku University because it offered education in a broad range of disciplines. At the time I was worried about whether I would be allowed to pursue the subject of my interest. But when I joined the department, I discovered many opportunities to learn outside the classroom. Not only have professors and senior students recommended various books related to the topic, but they are always willing to discuss it. I am very glad to be here.

To everyone aiming for the Faculty of Arts and Letters

You encounter lots of people during your university years: some of them belong to your faculty or department, while others you come across at a university club, or other places. Many of them are types of people you have never met before. You can grow through these encounters by discovering and acquiring new ways of thinking and values.
As for the things you have to do as high school students, I think that it is rather important to maintain your individuality. To emphasize your individuality does not mean “doing things differently”, though. You should simply be aware of what you like and dislike, and what holds your interest. I believe that this self-awareness will also help you determine your path in life.