Professionalisation of Sociologists

Yogesh Atal THE professionalisation of an academic subject is indicated by the quality of its social organisation. When practitioners of the discipline get organised into a professional association and start to interact with fellow colleagues through written media, and in conferences and seminars, the seeds of professionalism begin to gain ground. Sociology in India has crossed this threshold. Practising sociologists now belong to the Indian Sociological Society. Its constitution and its 'managing committee' perform the necessary 'gate-keeping function' to ensure legitimate entry. An annual conference has become a distinctive feature of the Society.