Matt Patterson, PhD

Doctorate Sociology, University of Toronto, 2015
M.A. Sociology, University of Toronto, 2007
B.A. Sociology, University of Waterloo, 2006
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Areas of Research

Urban Sociology
Urban sociology is my main area of expertise and I am able to supervise a wide range of topics related to cities and urban life. My own research focuses on the role of arts, culture, and architecture in urban development. Generally, I am interested in how the development of major cultural development projects create opportunities for urban inhabitants to struggle over issues related to collective identity and citizenship. In the past, I have studied museums, arts districts, and landmark architectural projects. Currently I am studying efforts to protect and preserve historic Chinatowns across North America.
Sociology of Culture
I have extensive training in the sociology of culture and can supervise projects within this area. This may include studies of popular culture, fine arts, cultural industries, museums and other cultural institutions, artists and culture workers, etc.
Sociological Theory
My main areas of expertise within sociological theory concern topics related to culture and space/place. In terms of culture, I have an interest in how this concept has been theorized within the classical era, by postwar theorists such as Pierre Bourdieu, and within contemporary sociological theory today. I am also interested in how sociologists have variably incorporated spatial analysis into their theories, including the Chicago School's human ecological perspective, postwar Marxist and urban political economic perspectives, and theories of spatial cognition and practice, among others.

Supervising degrees

Sociology - Masters: Accepting Inquiries
Sociology - Doctoral: Accepting Inquiries

More information

Department Profile

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