For Sociology: Michèle Lamont

In this episode of For Sociology, host Kevin Caners sits down with Michèle Lamont, the 2024 Kohli Prize Laureate and one of the most influential sociologists of our time. A professor at Harvard University and former president of the American Sociological Association, Lamont has spent her career exploring how we define worth, dignity, and belonging in an increasingly divided world. Through a wide-ranging conversation, Lamont reflects on her intellectual journey from Quebec to the top ranks of global sociology. She shares the inspiration behind her landmark books—Money, Morals, and Manners and The Dignity of Working Men—and explains how her work on symbolic boundaries helps us understand everything from class conflict to cultural inclusion. We also dive into her latest research on young workers, the role of social movements, and how cultural narratives can reduce stigma and foster greater inclusivity. Finally, Lamont offers powerful insights—and a few surprises—on how sociology can rise to meet the moment. Episode Guide: 00:00 Introduction to For Sociology 00:44 Meet Michèle Lamont: 2024 Kohli Prize Winner 01:51 From Quebec to Harvard: Michèle's Academic Journey 04:14 How Local Politics Shaped a Global Sociologist 08:51 Rethinking Social Worth and Inequality 10:28 Class Consciousness Across Cultures 14:39 Trump, Populism, and the Language of Belonging 22:04 Fighting Stigma: What Actually Works? 30:20 Rapid-Fire Reflections 43:20 Final Thoughts and Farewell Podcast Illustration by Adam Matak