What are sociology’s publics? Are there indeed any publics left for sociology -- apart from students our first and most important public? Is sociology too “left” to promote debate and discussion beyond the academy? Can we, do we, should we create our own publics when, for example, we conduct intensive research, for example, on social movements? Should we constitute ourselves as a public and with what consequences for the profession? What is the sociology of reaching publics? What role does the media play in linking sociology to its publics? What are the disciplinary antecedents and consequences of engaging publics? Is public sociology necessary for a vital discipline, or, alternatively, does it spell the demise of the discipline? What are the dilemmas for public sociology in such controversial areas as reproductive rights, ethics of science, family policy, sexuality, and affirmative action? What do our founding fathers have to say about the public role of sociology – do they have any relevance for today?