Sociology of childhood, race and ethnography: Possible intersections in the study of Brazilian childhoods

Abstract

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.14244/198271991115

The paper briefly discusses the notion of race in historical/sociological terms, linking it to studies applying the sociology of childhood for the research on/with children. The studies contribute to the understanding of existing childhood(s) in our society, marked by differences and social inequalities. The racial issue is particularly stood out, which does not mean that the debate about gender, class or origin is disregarded. The decision was made only to prioritize the study on the topic, considering that there is little of such studies in the area of sociology of childhood. We are aware of the fact that at certain steps of the analysis these themes are evident, and it is hard work to find the places where such events intersect or separate. By including ethnic and racial issues in the research on children, questions arise about the notions of neutrality and universality present in human sciences and the debate over childhood(s) is highlighted from a perspective that broadens looks, seeking new ways to understand realities. It seems also important to consider the methodological pathways used for the research and realize how much they take into account the data related to aspects of race in their analyses. Finally, in order to advance into the interface between the study of ethnic and race relations and the sociology of childhood, ethnography – as an anthropological method – may be considered as a powerful methodology for the research on children.

Keywords: Sociology of Childhood, Ethnography, Race, Black children.