what is public sociology?

what is public sociology? [from the modspec, 60% of the module assessment] "2500 word essay. The second assignment will be in essay form, inviting students to critically reflect on the theoretical foundations and historical and contemporary development of public sociology." Learning outcomes for the module: Knowledge and understanding… 1.    Articulate a critical awareness of the diversity and complexity of theories of public sociology; 2.    Critically evaluate the position of public sociology theory within sociological theory as a whole; 3.    Demonstrate a critical appreciation of the theoretical basis of the practice of public sociology; 4.    Critically reflect on the complex intellectual and practical challenges of public sociology as a knowledge producing practice. Skills, qualities and attributes… 1.    Show advanced competency in the communication of critical evaluations; 2.    Demonstrate effective time management competencies; 3.    Formulate, structure, and communicate coherent arguments. [handbook] "The final assessment 2500 word essay requires you to critically reflect on the theoretical foundations and historical and contemporary development of public sociology. You will construct your own titles for these essays, although they must be agreed with me. This task gives you some co-productive and participatory control over your learning and assessment. But bear in mind that they must be suitably critical and challenging questions adequate to the rigours of graduate study. This essay will contribute the final 60% of your module grade." These are questions created by Jeff. You can choose one, adapt one for your own idea or come up with your own question: 1a - What is public sociology? 1b - Are calls for a public sociology dangerous distractions from the scientific foundations of sociology? 2a - To what extent can sociology be said to be rooted in colonialism? 2b - Is the scientism of sociology's classical origins a burden that should be discarded? 3a - What public does sociology speak to, and to what effect? 3b - What are publics and where do they come from? 4a - Critically discuss the proposition that sociological method is too important to leave to sociologists. 4b - Critically examine the determinants of and responses to sociology's recurrent crises.