This research cluster focuses on the cultural and theoretical dimensions of social phenomena. As culturally-inclined sociologists, we are invested in the study of meaning. In their respective work, faculty treat culture both as a topic of study (e.g., popular culture, media) as well as a more general aspect of social life (e.g., cultural symbols, values, knowledge, and practices). Because of the latter, we are also theoretically minded; applying and developing theoretical concepts, propositions, and frameworks to improve our understanding of the social world. This cluster is pluralistic in scope; we are open to and invested in a variety of theoretical traditions, genres of theoretical work, units of cultural analysis, and research topics. However, religion is a topic of particular interest for our faculty, as are the meanings and messages distributed through media.