Nik Summers

I have joined the IU graduate program after receiving a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology (minor in Philosophy) from Texas Lutheran University and a Master’s Degree in Sociology from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. My research interests lie in interrogating the ubiquitous and, at times, frustratingly theorized concept of culture. What is the nature of cultural power? How do individuals and groups appropriate culture for their own ends? How is cultural innovation possible? What does that say about human nature? These are some questions that have, and I suspect, will continue to, motivate my research. As such, I am especially attracted to the sociologies of culture, religion, and politics and social theory.

On a more personal note, I was raised in a military family which afforded me the opportunity to live, at a young age, in places wide and far. I consider Texas my home now, but mostly by default. Japan, Alabama, and the Azores are some other highlights. My passions range from lifelong affairs, basketball, to the nearly so, movies (especially foreign and independent films), to the recently acquired, bouldering and tattoos.