Rate Professor Robert Van Krieken

Professional Summary: Professor Robert Van Krieken

Professor Robert Van Krieken is a distinguished sociologist and academic at the University of Sydney, Australia. With a career spanning several decades, he has made significant contributions to the fields of sociology, cultural studies, and historical sociology, focusing on themes such as celebrity culture, violence, and the civilizing process. His work is widely recognized for its interdisciplinary approach and critical engagement with social theory.

Academic Background and Degrees

Professor Van Krieken holds advanced degrees in sociology and related fields. While specific details of his educational institutions and years of graduation are not universally documented in public sources, his academic credentials are evidenced by his long-standing career and professorial status at a leading global university.

Research Specializations and Academic Interests

Robert Van Krieken’s research interests encompass a broad range of sociological topics, with a particular focus on:

• The sociology of celebrity and fame
• Violence and the civilizing process, drawing on the theories of Norbert Elias
• Historical sociology and the dynamics of social change
• Law, society, and cultural transformations

His work often explores the intersections of culture, power, and social structures, contributing to both theoretical and empirical advancements in sociology.

Career History and Appointments

Professor Van Krieken has held numerous academic positions, with a long-term association with the University of Sydney. His career trajectory includes:

• Professor of Sociology, University of Sydney, where he has been a key figure in the School of Social and Political Sciences
• Various teaching and research roles within the Department of Sociology and Social Policy

He has also contributed to academic programs and mentored numerous students and early-career researchers throughout his tenure.

Major Awards, Fellowships, and Honors

While specific awards and honors are not extensively detailed in widely accessible public records, Professor Van Krieken’s sustained academic presence and publication record reflect a high level of recognition within the sociological community. His contributions are acknowledged through his active participation in international academic networks and conferences.

Key Publications

Professor Van Krieken is a prolific author with several notable publications that have shaped discourse in sociology and cultural studies. Some of his key works include:

• ‘Celebrity Society’ (2012, 2nd Edition 2019) – A seminal book exploring the cultural and social dimensions of celebrity in modern society.
• ‘Norbert Elias’ (1998) – A critical examination of the sociologist Norbert Elias and his theories on the civilizing process.
• ‘Children and the State: Social Control and the Formation of Australian Child Welfare’ (1992) – A historical analysis of child welfare policies in Australia.
• Numerous journal articles and book chapters on topics such as violence, social theory, and cultural sociology, published in leading academic journals.

Influence and Impact on Academic Field

Robert Van Krieken’s scholarship has had a profound impact on the study of celebrity culture and the application of Norbert Elias’s theories to contemporary social issues. His book Celebrity Society is widely cited and used as a key text in courses on media and cultural studies. Additionally, his work on violence and social control has contributed to broader discussions on historical sociology and policy development. His interdisciplinary approach bridges sociology with history, law, and cultural studies, influencing both academic research and public discourse.

Public Lectures, Committees, and Editorial Contributions

Professor Van Krieken is actively engaged in the academic community through public lectures, conference presentations, and contributions to scholarly networks. While specific editorial roles or committee memberships are not comprehensively documented in public sources, he is known to participate in international sociological associations and contribute to academic discussions on social theory and cultural change.