SOCIAL FORCES

Scope & Guideline

Advancing Knowledge Across Disciplines.

Introduction

Welcome to the SOCIAL FORCES information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of SOCIAL FORCES, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0037-7732
PublisherOXFORD UNIV PRESS INC
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1925 to 2024
AbbreviationSOC FORCES / Soc. Forces
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressJOURNALS DEPT, 2001 EVANS RD, CARY, NC 27513

Aims and Scopes

The journal 'Social Forces' aims to explore the dynamic interactions between social structures and individual agency, focusing on the implications of these interactions for social inequality, cultural practices, and political processes. It emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, drawing insights from sociology, political science, economics, and cultural studies.
  1. Social Inequality and Stratification:
    The journal consistently publishes research addressing various dimensions of social inequality, including race, gender, class, and immigration status, exploring how these intersect and shape life outcomes.
  2. Cultural Dynamics and Identity:
    There is a strong emphasis on the role of culture in social processes, including the construction of identities, cultural movements, and the impact of cultural practices on social relations.
  3. Labor and Economic Structures:
    Research on labor markets, employment dynamics, and economic inequalities is a core focus, often examining how economic policies and conditions affect different social groups.
  4. Political Participation and Social Movements:
    The journal frequently explores themes related to political engagement, activism, and the role of social movements in shaping public policy and social change.
  5. Health and Well-Being:
    Health disparities and their social determinants are recurrent topics, reflecting an interest in how social factors influence health outcomes and access to healthcare.
Recent publications in 'Social Forces' reveal emerging themes and trends that reflect the evolving landscape of social research. These themes highlight the journal's responsiveness to contemporary issues affecting society.
  1. Intersectionality in Social Research:
    There is a growing trend towards intersectional analyses that examine how various social identities (e.g., race, gender, class) intersect to produce unique experiences of privilege and oppression.
  2. Digital and Online Activism:
    Research on the role of digital platforms in social movements and activism is on the rise, reflecting the increasing importance of social media in political engagement and community organizing.
  3. Health Inequalities and Social Justice:
    The focus on health disparities, particularly in the context of COVID-19 and its aftermath, has become more pronounced, emphasizing social determinants of health and the implications for policy and equity.
  4. Migration and Transnationalism:
    Studies addressing the complexities of migration, including the experiences of immigrants and the dynamics of transnational communities, are increasingly featured in the journal.
  5. Precarious Labor and Gig Economy:
    Research examining the implications of precarious work and the gig economy on social relations and economic stability is emerging as a significant area of focus, highlighting contemporary labor market challenges.

Declining or Waning

While 'Social Forces' has maintained a broad focus on social issues, certain themes have become less prominent in recent publications. This section highlights these waning scopes, reflecting a shift in research priorities within the journal.
  1. Traditional Family Structures:
    Research focusing solely on traditional family dynamics and roles has seen a decline, as the journal increasingly emphasizes diverse family forms and the complexities of contemporary family life.
  2. Rural Studies and Small Communities:
    There has been a noticeable decrease in publications centered on rural sociology and small community studies, suggesting a shift towards urban-centric research.
  3. Historical Sociology:
    Papers that focus exclusively on historical analyses of social phenomena have become less frequent, indicating a potential waning interest in historical perspectives in favor of contemporary issues.
  4. Classical Theoretical Frameworks:
    While foundational sociological theories remain important, there appears to be a decline in papers that strictly adhere to classical theories in favor of more innovative and interdisciplinary approaches.
  5. Environmental Sociology:
    Although environmental issues remain relevant, research specifically framed within environmental sociology has diminished, possibly overshadowed by broader discussions of climate justice and sustainability.

Similar Journals

ACTA SOCIOLOGICA

Connecting Theory and Practice in Social Sciences
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTDISSN: 0001-6993Frequency: 4 issues/year

ACTA SOCIOLOGICA, published by SAGE Publications Ltd, stands as a prominent journal in the fields of sociology and political science, holding a distinguished Q1 category ranking in the 2023 Scopus quartiles. With its inception dating back to 1956, this peer-reviewed journal offers a platform for innovative research, theoretical developments, and critical discussions that shape contemporary sociological discourse. Operating from the United Kingdom, ACTA SOCIOLOGICA reflects the dynamic interplay of social structures, political involvements, and cultural transformations, engaging scholars, practitioners, and students alike in a global context. Because it does not currently offer Open Access, readers benefit from institutional subscriptions to access cutting-edge sociology research, furthering knowledge and enlightenment within the academic community. With an impressive Scopus rank of #291 out of 1466 in the social sciences, the journal continues to influence the scholarly landscape, encouraging rigorous analysis and diverse perspectives essential for understanding the complexities of modern society.

Revista de Ciencias Sociales-Costa Rica

Innovating Insights into Social Dynamics
Publisher: UNIV COSTA RICA, FAC SOCIAL SCIENCESISSN: 2215-2601Frequency: 4 issues/year

Revista de Ciencias Sociales-Costa Rica is a prominent open access journal dedicated to the advancement of social sciences research in the Latin American context. Published by the esteemed Universidad de Costa Rica, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales, this journal has been a vital platform for scholars since its inception in 2007, promoting rigorous academic discourse and knowledge sharing in fields such as sociology, anthropology, psychology, and political science. With its commitment to accessibility and research dissemination, the journal welcomes contributions from researchers, professionals, and students alike, fostering collaboration and dialogue across diverse academic communities. The ISSN 2215-2601 ensures the journal's recognition within the scholarly ecosystem, while its location in San José, Costa Rica, positions it uniquely to address both regional and global social issues. By aiming to publish high-quality, impactful research, Revista de Ciencias Sociales-Costa Rica plays a crucial role in enhancing the depth and reach of social sciences scholarship, making it an essential resource for anyone passionate about understanding and influencing the social fabric of societies.

DISSENT

Engaging critical voices in the pursuit of social justice.
Publisher: FOUNDATION STUDY INDEPENDENT SOCIAL IDEAS, INCISSN: 0012-3846Frequency: 4 issues/year

DISSENT is a prominent journal published by the Foundation Study Independent Social Ideas, Inc, dedicated to the examination and critique of various social ideas and movements. Since its inception in 1976, DISSENT has established itself as a pivotal platform for scholars and practitioners in the fields of sociology and political science, although it currently resides in the Q4 quartile for both categories according to the 2023 rankings. With its ISSN 0012-3846 and E-ISSN 1946-0910, DISSENT engages with complex societal issues, providing invaluable insights that contribute to the discourse surrounding social justice, inequality, and ideological critique. While the journal does not offer open access, it remains relevant for academic institutions and professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of contemporary social challenges. Its evolving scope and emphasis on independent thought make it an essential resource for researchers and students alike, fostering an environment of critical analysis and dialogue.

China Perspectives

Unpacking the Complexities of Modern Chinese Society
Publisher: FRENCH CENTRE RESEARCH CONTEMPORARY CHINAISSN: 2070-3449Frequency: 4 issues/year

China Perspectives, published by the esteemed French Centre Research Contemporary China, is a leading academic journal that delves into the diverse, multifaceted dimensions of contemporary Chinese society, culture, and political landscape. With an ISSN of 2070-3449 and an E-ISSN of 1996-4617, this journal has established itself as a significant contributor to the fields of Cultural Studies, Political Science, and Geography, reflected in its impressive rankings, including Q2 in Cultural Studies and Q3 in Political Science and International Relations as of 2023. The journal aims to provide a platform for rigorous scholarly discussions and innovative research, accommodating contributions from established researchers and emerging scholars alike, making it a vital resource for anyone interested in understanding China and its global implications. As an open-access journal, it ensures that valuable insights and findings are readily available to a wider audience, promoting engagement and discourse within academia and beyond. With publication spanning from 2007 to 2024, China Perspectives continues to shape discussions and foster critical research in the understanding of contemporary China.

CURRENT SOCIOLOGY

Illuminating the Complexities of Human Interaction
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTDISSN: 0011-3921Frequency: 6 issues/year

CURRENT SOCIOLOGY is a prestigious academic journal published by SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTD, focusing on the dynamic field of sociology. Since its inception in 1952, this journal has been at the forefront of sociological research, bridging theoretical frameworks and empirical studies to address contemporary social issues. As evidenced by its impressive impact factor and notable ranking among the top Q1 journals in Sociology and Political Science, CURRENT SOCIOLOGY is recognized for its quality and contribution to the academic community, holding a commendable position within the 87th percentile of its discipline—#183 out of 1466 in the Scopus ranks. The journal's scope encompasses a wide range of sociological topics, providing a platform for researchers, professionals, and students to share their insights and foster discussions that shape our understanding of societal dynamics. While it does not currently offer open access, its rich repository of knowledge makes it a vital resource for those eager to explore cutting-edge sociological theories and findings.

Izquierdas

Cultivating Critical Insights in History and Politics
Publisher: ARIADNA EDICIONES & SAINT PETERSBURG STATE UNIVISSN: 0718-5049Frequency: 1 issue/year

Izquierdas is a distinguished open access journal published by ARIADNA EDICIONES in partnership with Saint Petersburg State University, focusing on the dynamic fields of History, Political Science, and Sociology. Established in Chile and operating since 2008 as an open access platform, the journal fosters academic discourse and research dissemination for scholars and practitioners alike. With a commendable Q2 ranking in History and Q3 status in both Political Science and Sociology as of 2023, Izquierdas occupies a significant position within its categories, being recognized for its contributions to advancing understanding of leftist political thought and social dynamics. Its Scopus rankings further underscore its valuable contribution to the arts and humanities and social sciences, making it an essential resource for anyone engaged in contemporary social and political issues. The journal continues to evolve and adapt, set to converge from 2013 to 2024, ensuring it remains at the forefront of scholarly communication in its field. For researchers, professionals, and students passionate about these critical domains, Izquierdas represents a vital repository of innovative ideas and peer-reviewed research.

THEORY AND SOCIETY

Bridging Disciplines to Illuminate the Human Experience.
Publisher: SPRINGERISSN: 0304-2421Frequency: 6 issues/year

THEORY AND SOCIETY is a prestigious academic journal published by Springer that has been at the forefront of interdisciplinary dialogue in the fields of History, Sociology, and Political Science since its inception in 1974. With an impressive impact factor and categorized in the top quartile (Q1) of both History and Sociology & Political Science for 2023, it occupies a distinguished position within the academic community, evidenced by its high rankings in Scopus—ranked 5 out of 1,760 in History (99th percentile) and 110 out of 1,466 in Sociology and Political Science (92nd percentile). The journal serves as a vital platform for scholars to explore rigorous theoretical frameworks and their implications for contemporary societal issues, ensuring comprehensive access to quality research without the constraints of open access. Located in Dordrecht, Netherlands, THEORY AND SOCIETY continues to provide critical insights and foster discussions that shape and redefine our understanding of theoretical approaches to social phenomena.

Estudios de Historia Moderna y Contemporanea de Mexico

Illuminating Mexico's Historical Journey for Scholars and Enthusiasts
Publisher: UNAM, INST INVESTIGACIONES HISTORICASISSN: 0185-2620Frequency: 2 issues/year

Estudios de Historia Moderna y Contemporanea de Mexico, published by the UNAM, INST INVESTIGACIONES HISTORICAS, serves as a vital resource for scholars and enthusiasts in the fields of modern and contemporary Mexican history. With an ISSN of 0185-2620 and E-ISSN of 2448-5004, this journal has been Open Access since 2010, ensuring that researchers, professionals, and students can freely access a wealth of knowledge without barriers. Situated in Mexico and operating from CIUDAD UNIV, the journal offers insight into significant historical narratives spanning from 2009 to 2024. Ranked in the Q3 category for history in 2023 and positioned at Rank #1177/1760 in Scopus, it provides a unique platform to explore diverse historical perspectives, making it a crucial publication for advancing research within its academic community.

Historia-Santiago

Advancing Scholarship on Latin American Narratives
Publisher: PONTIFICA UNIV CATOLICA CHILE, INST HISTORIAISSN: 0717-7194Frequency: 2 issues/year

Historia-Santiago is an esteemed academic journal published by the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Instituto de Historia. Since its inception in 2000, the journal has embraced an Open Access model, facilitating broad dissemination of historical research and ensuring that critical scholarly work is freely accessible to researchers, professionals, and students around the globe. With a focus on Latin American history, Historia-Santiago provides a platform for innovative research and contributions that engage with diverse historical narratives and methodologies. The journal aims to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and stimulate scholarly debate, thereby enriching the understanding of historical contexts and their implications in contemporary society. By maintaining high academic standards, Historia-Santiago occupies a vital role in the field of historical studies, encouraging authors to explore new ideas and perspectives that shape the understanding of our past.

SOCIOLOGIA

Unveiling insights into Central European sociology.
Publisher: INST SOCIOLOGY SLOVAK ACAD SCIENCESISSN: 0049-1225Frequency: 6 issues/year

SOCIOLOGIA, the esteemed journal published by the Institute of Sociology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, serves as a vital platform for advancing knowledge and discourse in the fields of Sociology and Political Science. With an ISSN of 0049-1225 and E-ISSN 1336-8613, this journal has made a significant impact since its inception, now holding a respectable Q3 ranking in the 2023 category quartiles. Its Scopus ranking at #733 out of 1466 in Social Sciences underscores its academic relevance and contributions to the discipline, reaching the 50th percentile among comparable publications. Though it does not offer Open Access, SOCIOLOGIA is dedicated to publishing high-quality, peer-reviewed research that explores social phenomena and political structures with a focus on the Central European context. Researchers, professionals, and students keen on understanding social dynamics will find valuable insights and innovative research within its pages. The journal’s address is Klemensova 19, Bratislava 81364, Slovakia, where it fosters scholarly communication and a deeper exploration of societal issues.