CHARLES BROWN, PH.D

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Who Am I?

I was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest (Oregon and Washington).    I received my Bachelors degree in sociology from Oregon State University, my Masters degree in sociology from The University of South Florida, and my Ph.D. in sociology at Southern Illinois University.  I spent two years as a Visiting Assistant Professor of sociology at Ohio University in Athens Ohio before accepting a full time tenure track position here at Albright College in Reading Pennsylvania.

My major research interests in sociology include culture, religion, and popular culture.  My master's thesis was a formulaic analysis of the lyrics and major themes of Conservative Christian speed/thrash metal music.  My dissertation (the book that is written for the Ph.D.) incorporates interviews, participant observation, and secondary literature to analyze the production of contemporary evangelical Christian culture, especially popular culture, and how various tensions within the industry are recognized and mediated.  I’m currently working on two new projects: one in the sociology of the paranormal, the other in the sociology of extreme sport.  I enjoy skiing, mountain biking, kayaking, and rock climbing. 

Latest News/Thoughts

• During the month of June in 2018, I took a trip to Costa Rica.
• During the months of June, July & August, 2013, I took a trip across The United States where I visited the following states: Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, and Delaware. 
• During the months of June & July, 2011, I took a trip through The British Isles where I visited the following countries: England, Wales, Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Scotland. 
• During the month of July, 2010, I took a trip to Western Europe where I visited the following countries: Italy, Switzerland, Spain, France, Belgium, The Netherlands, Germany, The Czech Republic, and Austria. 

  Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions, comments, or would just like to chat. You can reach me at:

Charles M. Brown
Department of Sociology
Albright College
Reading, PA  19604
Office: Selwyn Hall 203
Office Phone: (610) 921-7865