Thomas, William I(saac) (1863–1947)

US sociologist. An empiricist, he helped to make sociology a scientific discipline; he also pioneered the study of social psychology. His most important books were Source Book for Social Origins (1909) and The Polish Peasant in Europe and America (co-authored, 5 vols. 1918–20). Dismissed from the University of Chicago faculty (1894–1918) after a sex scandal, he never again held a permanent appointment, but obtained research funding and visiting professorships.

Thomas was born in Russell County, Virginia. He began as an English professor at Oberlin College (1889–95) before getting a PhD in sociology at the University of Chicago.