The work of a man who pioneered the teaching of sociology in Aberdeen will be celebrated later this month – 100 years after his appointment.
Robert MacIver was employed by the University of Aberdeen from 1907 to 1915 and later became world famous as President of the American Sociological Association and Chancellor of the New School of Social Research in New York. He was also the author of over 20 books, the last of which he wrote at the age of 86.
However, despite developing an international reputation in sociology, Stornoway-born MacIver's achievements and writings on community, politics and methodology have been largely forgotten since his death in 1970. Now, a one-day centenary conference celebrating his work and commemorating his time in the Granite City will be held at the University of Aberdeen on Friday, May 18.
"The teaching of sociology at the University began with Robert MacIver's appointment in 1907, making us the fourth oldest university to teach the new subject," said Professor John Brewer, Head of Sociology at the University of Aberdeen, and one of the speakers at the conference.
"He was a brilliant man with passionate convictions who battled to get sociology accepted in Scotland and later Canada. His legacy is substantial and we're delighted to be able to host this conference in his honour."
Full details of the conference, including information about registering, can be found at www.abdn.ac.uk/maciver Alternatively, to register please contact Elaine Brown at href="mailto:elaine.brown@abdn.ac.uk">elaine.brown@abdn.ac.uk</a></p>