Monica Short and the Anglican Church community in rural Australia What's Sociology Got to do with it?

For many towns in rural and regional Australia, it’s normal to see a church on the corner. You drive by, maybe slow down to take a look. But to Monica Short, the role of religion in Australia’s rural communities goes much beyond old buildings.

In her work on the Anglican Church in rural Australian communities, Monica sees religion as a force that provides a sense of belonging and community. And more than that, she argues that these seemingly abstract concepts–community, social wellbeing, belonging–can and do influence an individual. And so, in times of hardship and struggle, the local church becomes a place of connection and support.

On this episode of What’s Sociology Got To Do With It?, a bunch of philosophers and sociologists are name–dropped as Monica also explains how sociology allows individuals to see each other in a more critically and reflective manner. That is, rather than looking at others and our societies through our own norms and values, Monica argues that sociology allows us to step out of our heads and look at the bigger picture. And through the sociology of religion, Monica argues that academics and researchers can tie religion to its effects on cultures and communities across the world.

Monica can be contacted through her e–mail, mshort@csu.edu.