We can rely on sociology to make sense of social challenges and help us take action. This is particularly important for societies experiencing crises or struggling to address challenges to their wellbeing. For example, early in the COVID-19 pandemic (March 2020) the German Sociological Association started documenting sociological contributions that are helping the country understand public response to the crisis. This study examined important social phenomena, such as the strong willingness of people in Germany to act in solidarity by following policies designed to protect the more vulnerable (such as stay at home policies). Sociologists also are researching motivations around hoarding consumer goods (such as toilet paper), and increases in domestic violence during the pandemic (Blättel-Mink 2020).

Sociologists are also employed by international agencies addressing wellbeing challenges in specific regions. They might work in larger organizations such as the many branches of the United Nations (UN), the World Bank, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO), or the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). The multitude of smaller nongovernmental international organizations around the world also look for staff that have a strong understanding of how society functions.

Some examples just in Oregon include the international humanitarian organization Mercy Corps; Green Empowerment, which works with rural communities to improve access to renewable energy, water, sanitation, and cook stoves; and Rafiki Village Project foundation, dedicated to improving health, literacy, and economic prosperity in Tanzania.

Research professionals, program assistants, or directors with sociology education might be hired to address public health and medicine, such as malaria, reproductive health, child survival, and HIV. They might work performing outreach and education regarding gender equality, sanitation, or agricultural support. Initiatives include improving educational access, human trafficking, community development, human rights, legal aid, or providing support to elders. Sociologists hired with emergency response organizations might conduct needs assessments in humanitarian zones, determining estimated numbers of victims who need shelter, water, food, or—in the case of the needs of children—physical protection.

Sociologists and other social researchers also work to understand cultural, political, psychological and economic factors that affect global health and well-being. For example, the World Health Organization (WHO) examines these factors to apply them to the design, implementation and evaluation of their policies. The better these factors are understood the more effective, accepted, and equitable their interventions (WHO n.d.).

Often during times of intense social unrest, members of societies see their countries going through a period of transition, so lean toward sociologists, often considered the conscience of society, who can help them understand their new and troubling current circumstances as well as point toward ways of improving the circumstances they face (Garretón 2005:361).

Another example is when societies are experiencing protracted conflict, such as civil war. The 1970s and 80s produced a watershed of study by sociologists in Latin America in response to the social and political conflicts suffered by nations in that region. Research, writing, and debate regarding social factors such as the roots of conflict, social movements, resistance fueled by civil society, and forensic human rights research all contributed to a large body of knowledge intent on both understanding the social dynamics at play in southern countries and finding ways to relieve conflicts and suffering.

Political sociologists are especially engaged during times of social conflict. For example, in 2022 Ukrainian sociologist Volodymyr Ishchenko was able to apply his in-depth study of social dynamics in Ukraine to helping the world understand Russia’s war on Ukraine. His focus on protests and social movements, revolutions, right and left politics, nationalism, and civil society keenly positioned him to provide commentary for a number of media outlets.