David Morgan Obituary

David Morgan, a sociologist who recently passed away at the age of 82 from cancer, revolutionized the study and comprehension of families. His debut book, "Social Theory and the Family," was influential for its acceptance of feminism, a highly unusual perspective for male sociologists at that time. Morgan argued that in order to understand familial dynamics, one must acknowledge gender hierarchy. He examined the notion that the roles of men and women were naturally distinct, as well as the feminist belief that men held more authority in domestic and non-domestic spheres because of women’s unpaid domestic labor, perpetuating the oppression of women.

Morgan went on to develop the idea of "family practices," which refers to relationships and activities that are established by family members and potentially affected by social and historical factors. In "Family Connections" and "Rethinking Family Practices," Morgan pushed for a change that shifted the focus from "the family" as a noun, to "doing family" as an action, which recognizes the diverse possibilities of what can define a family; they may include non-traditional family structures based on blended families, multigenerational groups, non-heterosexual partnerships, or even friendships. Morgan’s ideas revitalized the study of family dynamics in sociology, transforming it into a thriving field that now explores the various ways people "do" family life.

Morgan was a professor at the University of Manchester, where he founded the Morgan Centre for Research into Everyday Lives, until his retirement. The centre was named after him in 2005. Even though he was an emeritus professor, he continued to participate in the Centre’s activities until his death, even joining virtual meetings regarding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on daily life.

Morgan was known for his mentorship of young sociologists. He provided constructive feedback and encouraged sociological inquiry without dictating his own perspective. Morgan’s interests were far-reaching. He was one of the first sociologists to examine masculinity critically, co-editing "Men, Masculinities and Social Theory" with Jeff Hearn. He conducted research on marriage guidance history with Jane Lewis and David Clarke and edited "Body Matters" with Ann Phoenix, and "Gender, Bodies and Work" with Berit Brandth and Elin Kvande. Morgan also studied the relationship between cultural production, social networks, and friendship within the Bloomsbury Group. Morgan used his sociological perspective to evaluate the ways in which social networks can provide a sense of belonging and security in modern life. In his final book, "Snobbery," Morgan argued that class divisions are experienced and perpetuated through the enjoyment of snobbery.

Morgan was born in London, and his parents were Louisa and Maurice Morgan. His education includes two years of national service in the RAF before attending the University of Hull in 1957, where he began studying economics, but eventually switched to sociology. Morgan later earned his doctorate from Hull, where he studied the social and educational backgrounds of Anglican Bishops, revealing that almost all of them came from elite and privileged backgrounds.

Throughout the 1980s and beyond, David had a partner in the form of sociologist Janet Finch. When Janet was appointed as the vice-chancellor at Keele University, they decided to make their home on the university campus in Staffordshire. As a result, David took on the role of active visiting professor at Keele. His presence on campus was felt and appreciated by many, and he made a significant contribution to the academic community during his time there.

Aside from his involvement at Keele, David had also been a long-standing member of the British Sociological Association (BSA). In fact, he had served as the president of the BSA for two years, from 1997 to 1999, and was awarded the association’s distinguished service award in 2016.

David’s family meant the world to him. He is survived by his beloved partner Janet, his children Julian and Jacqueline from his marriage to Rosemary, and his grandchildren Harry, Eleanor, Alicia, and John. They will always remember David’s kindness, intellect, and his warm and loving heart.