The wisdom of sociology: Sam Richards at TEDxLacador

How can an academic discipline like Sociology be life changing? This talk suggests one way by exploring how sociologists teach us to re-imagine our personal problems and ourselves. In the end, we learn that even in our most private and seemingly isolated moments, we may be more connected to others than we realize.

His unique ability to connect with students along with his innovative use of technology in the classroom makes Sam Richards a very popular Sociology professor in the United States. Every semester over 750 students at Penn State University take his class on race and ethnic relations, the largest course on this subject in the world. He creates an active learning space where he addresses with humor and courage the very questions that most of us choose to avoid. Sam is also a co-founder of Penn State's World in Conversation Center. Every year, thousands of students from around the world participate in the Center's mission to bring conflict into collaboration through peer-facilitated dialogue.

About TEDx, x = independently organized event

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)

[ZekeCogan]

The camera man was getting hella inspired

[lecno]

Why'd I get assigned to watch a 14 minute saliva asmr video

[meriemsabeg]

I watched this once, and every time I get high, I literally become this guy, and start talking so sentimentally about our society

[orlandabao]

the comments are distracting me from contextualizing my reflection paper about this video ejwbsksjks

[rdeyeshine]

that microphone is too good..i dont like it..

[spiritbladeflame]

what the heck is that sound, his saliva? 

[dave]

I almost though he would start singing or something at the end there...."We are the world..We are the children"

[CrimsonA]

Wish we had WAY more politicians who are also Sociological experts. Having an empathy that extends way beyond yourself I believe is key to having better leaders.

[FeelTalks]

Sociology literally saved my life and i made a video on it. It gave me an acceptable perspective of myself, separate from what my parents were enforcing on me, what our academic system was trying to mold us in, and away from peer pressure. Sitting in that soci class at the age of 19, i felt COMPLETE for the first time. I sitll don't understand how this isn't taught mandatorily in schools.
This is great, thanks Sam!

[KharizaMaeYbanez]

Sociology empowers people to survive in life. It's like someone pats your shoulder whenenver you feel like you're giving up. It's an epitome of a contagious hope that gives comfort to human beings.

[spuffyselen]

like if you get the Durkheim reference

[TheSkeletongamer]

I am so glad that the camera-person got that shot of that box. Seriously, that man needs some ADD medicine. 

[asrizab.disomangcop]

Sam Richards is emphasizing the idea that as individuals, we are not isolated in our experiences. He's highlighting the shared human condition, suggesting that there are others in the world who are going through similar challenges, emotions, and life experiences as we are. This perspective encourages empathy and understanding by reminding us that we are part of a broader human community, and our struggles and joys are not unique to us alone. It can foster a sense of connection and solidarity with others, promoting compassion and a greater awareness of the universality of human experiences.

[MLucky]

8 minutes in I still don't know where he's going with this talk. And I just completed my Honours degree in Sociology

[ManInTheBigHat]

I do wish he'd just get to the point and drop the drama.
I'm moving on.

[MichaelSelhost]

Lol, this guy is off his rocker. He was on the right trail until his eyes became flooded with rainbows and starlights.

[jedhuang]

Man, this professor is a hippy with short hair

[hellieweird]

It's amazing how the mathematical study of human behaviour can reveal such deep truths about living in today's society

[mdarrenu]

As a Ph.D sociologist, I don't agree with this interpretation of sociology explaining that you don't have freedom. The concept of freedom/free will or determination/fate is a value judgement needed for a moral code. Also, sociology is concerned and best addresses group behavior - not individual behavior. Its not that people have no freedom, it is just they have similarities to other people (structually equivalents) based on their position in the strata of demographic characteristics. Within these strata, there is large differentiation, but when comparing one group to another group - you see the stable differences.

[darkchildoflight]

I've always tried to distance myself from people and do my own thing. But the older I get, the more I see that I'm not in control of the things I want to do in life.