Development Of Sociology Discussed At Conference

Press, Volume CIII, Issue 30593, 9 November 1964, Page 8

Development Of Sociology Discussed At Conference

The development of sociology as a full-fledged social science was the major concern at the second conference at Canberra of the Sociology Association of Australia and New Zealand, according to Dr. Charles Gray, of the University of Canterbury, who attended the conference.

Sociology, the study of patterns in the behaviour of social groups, had long been recognised as an important discipline in America and Western Europe, he said. “In recent years, however, sociological research and teaching have had their beginnings in most Australian and New Zealand univeresities.

“This development may be a recognition that- modern social problems are increasingly complex and are unlikely to be resolved until we have more knowledge of group behaviour. “Most delegates to the conference felt that sociology had a long way to go in this part of the world. However, the recent rapid growth, the for-

mation of a professional society last year, and the publication of a professional journal in 1965, are encouraging signs,” said Dr. Gray. About 45 persons attended the conference, most of whom were sociologists representing all the universities in Australia and New Zealand, except Auckland.

Among the papers read was one dealing with Maori-pakeha relationships at a teachers’ college at Auckland. This was presented by Dr. John Harre, of the University of Otago. Dr. Gray a political sociologist, read a paper to the conference concerning the political ideologies of Johnson, Goldwater, Kennedy, and Humphrey when they served together in the United States Senate. There will be another conference next year in Melbourne.

“Within two or three years the annual conference will probably be held, in New Zealand at one of the university centres,” Dr. Gray said.