Call for Book Chapters: Social Justice Perspectives in the United States
The College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (CLASS) is one of the largest colleges at Alabama State University (ASU). The College, and by extension, the University, offers an expansive array of academic programs that foster critical thinking, first-rate scholarship, and encourage research and artistic creativity. As part of its research and publication agenda, CLASS is inviting ASU faculty members – and faculty members within and outside of Alabama -- to participate in an edited volume that critically interrogates social justice issues.
This book will provide scholarly analysis, critique, and discussion of a wide range of contemporary social justice issues in the United States.
Although it lacks a precise definition, John T. Jost and Aaron C. Kay (2010) defined social justice as a “state of affairs in which (a) benefits and burdens in society are dispersed in accordance with some allocation principle (or set of principles); (b) procedures, norms, and rules that govern political and other forms of decision making preserve the basic rights, liberties, and entitlements of individuals and groups; and (c) human beings are treated with dignity and respect not only by authorities but also by other relevant social actors, including fellow citizens” (p. 1122).
As a concept, “social justice” was introduced into popular parlance in 1840 by Luigi Taparelli d’Azeglio, and then popularized by Antonio Rosmini-Serbati in 1848. In the intervening period, scores of philosophers, sociologists, and scholars across multitudes of academic disciplines have broadened and deepened our understanding by making advances in terms of theories, frameworks, typologies, and utility and intersectionality in human societies. Social justice has and can be approached from several dimensions including the natural environment, culture, the economy, private and public institutions, the justice system, governance and leadership, welfare, education, social movements, medicine, science and technology, and all aspects of human civilization.
The primary goal of this book is to provide multi- and interdisciplinary perspectives to the examination of social justice issues. Therefore, the historical origins and fundamental information relevant to understanding the social and environmental justice issues witnessed in the United States are welcome. Relatedly, honest representations of the marginalized and disenfranchised are also welcome.
In addition to the critical and timely discussions and analyses, authors are invited to present solutions to thorny and complicated social justice issues. Topics related to environmental justice, the legal system, criminal justice reform, LGBTQ+, sex and gender equality, mental health advocacy, racial and ethnic equality, and other critical issues are included. Conceptual, historical, theoretical, and empirical articles are eligible for consideration. Scholars are encouraged to also suggest/write on themes that are not on the suggested list if their topic of interest falls within the general thrust of the book. The topics of interest include, but are not limited to the following:
Part 1: History, Theoretical Framework, and Voices
● The Historical Origins of social justice
● The Philosophical expressions of social justice
● Native Americans/Indigenous Peoples and Social Justice
● African Americans and Social Justice
● Refugees and Social Justice
● LGBTQ+ and Social Justice
● Persons with Disabilities and Social Justice
Part 2: Issues and Concerns
● Environmental Justice
● Reparations
● Judicial System/Criminal Justice/Policing
● Economic Systems/Historical Redlining
● Voter Suppression
● Healthcare
● Religion and Spirituality
● Educational Issues
● Gender and Sexuality Issues
Part 3: Strategies and Public Policy
● The Media
● Grassroots Organization
● Education
● Legislation
● Listening
● Reconciliation
● Technology
● Faith-based approaches
● Advocacy
Timeline: Submit Abstract and Bio by May 25, 2024; Finished Chapter expected by June 30, 2024
Social Justice Book Committee
College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
Alabama State University
c/o Calvin Smith / Marcia Rossi