Eliot Freidson

Eliot Freidson (1923 – December 14, 2005) was a prominent sociologist who made significant contributions to the sociology of professions, medical sociology, and the study of professionalism. His work is considered foundational in understanding the role and structure of professions in society, and he is often cited as a leading figure in the field of medical sociology.

Biography

Eliot Freidson was born in 1923. Over the course of his career, he focused on the sociology of professions, exploring how professions are organized, how professional knowledge is established and maintained, and the impact of professions on society. Freidson received his Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Chicago, where he was influenced by the work of Everett Hughes, a prominent figure in the sociology of work and occupations.

Freidson's research and theoretical contributions have had a lasting impact on the study of professions and professionalism. He argued that professions occupy a unique position in society, with a distinct body of knowledge and a commitment to self-regulation and autonomy. Freidson was particularly interested in the medical profession, examining how the medical field maintains its professional status and authority.

Key Contributions

One of Freidson's most influential works is "Professionalism: The Third Logic," in which he presents the concept of professionalism as a form of organizing work that is distinct from market-driven or bureaucratic models. In this work, Freidson argues that professionalism offers a third alternative for organizing work, one that is based on the expertise of professionals and their commitment to serving the public good.

Freidson also contributed to the understanding of how professional knowledge is created and maintained. He explored the social processes through which professions establish standards of practice and enforce adherence to these standards among their members. This work has implications for understanding the dynamics of professional authority and the relationship between professions and society.

Legacy

Eliot Freidson's contributions to the sociology of professions and medical sociology continue to influence scholars in these fields. His work on professionalism, in particular, has been foundational in developing a theoretical framework for understanding the role of professions in modern society. Freidson's emphasis on the importance of professional autonomy and self-regulation has also informed debates on the regulation of professions and the maintenance of professional standards.

Freidson passed away on December 14, 2005, but his work remains a critical reference point for scholars interested in the sociology of work, professions, and medical sociology.

Selected Publications

• Professionalism: The Third Logic (2001)
• Professional Powers: A Study of the Institutionalization of Formal Knowledge (1986)
• Doctoring Together: A Study of Professional Social Control (1975)

See Also

• Sociology of professions
• Medical sociology
• Professionalism
• University of Chicago