Clayton Peoples

Clayton Peoples is an Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR), where he also serves as Director of the School of Social Research and Justice Studies and faculty in the interdisciplinary social psychology Ph.D. program. He earned his Ph.D. in Sociology from Ohio State University in 2005. His research focuses on social stratification, political sociology, state-corporate crime, and policy analysis, particularly examining how campaign contributions influence policymaking and corruption. He has published widely in journals such as Sociological Quarterly and Crime, Law, and Social Change, and authored the 2020 book The Undermining of American Democracy. Peoples has received prestigious fellowships, including the Edmond J. Safra Lab Fellowship at Harvard University, and teaching awards for his innovative approaches.

Education: Ph.D. in Sociology (Ohio State University, 2005), M.A. (Ohio State University, 2001), B.A. (Bowling Green State University, 1999).

Research Interests: His work explores intersections of power, inequality, and institutional corruption. Key themes include campaign finance's impact on democracy, social movements, global ethnic conflict, and courtroom dynamics. His recent studies at Harvard focused on campaign contributions and the 2008 financial crisis, culminating in his acclaimed book.

Publications and Awards: Over 20 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, including influential works on PAC influence, legislative bribery, and jury decision-making. Awards recognize both scholarly contributions and teaching excellence, such as the Pacific Sociological Association's Early Career Award for Innovation in Teaching.

Advising and Grants: Advises Ph.D. students like Kate High. Secured grants including the Congressional Research Award from the Dirksen Congressional Center. Active in policy-oriented research with implications for legal and political reform.

Labs/Teams: Leads research initiatives in the School of Social Research and Justice Studies, collaborating on projects about political corruption, social networks, and comparative sociology.