Justin Nelson

Dr. Justin Nelson joined the faculty of Campbell University in 2018 and serves as associate professor of sociology. He teaches courses in sociology, including Principles of Sociology, Social Problems, Marriage and Family and a series of courses on Exploring, Leading, and Engaging Rural and Underserved Communities. His new book, Society Without People, explores the social implications of emerging technology, including the metaverse and artificial intelligence. His previous research on technology has described the relationship between attachment to smartphones and the pursuit of meaning and purpose in life. Dr. Nelson’s research interests also include rural communities, family, education, and religion, with articles published in Sociological Perspectives, Social Science Quarterly, The Sociological Quarterly, Research in Higher Education, Journal of Family Issues, and Baptist News Global. He is also the co-author of the book Community Capitals and the Rural Church, which explores the role of the church in community partnerships. Dr. Nelson earned his Ph.D. in sociology from Baylor University in Waco, TX. He is originally from Fargo, ND and previously taught high school social studies and Spanish in Las Vegas, NV. His wife, Rachel, is an educational researcher at Appalachian State University. In their free time, they enjoy reading and listening to music with their daughter, Kennedy, watching sports, and walking their dogs, Gus and Jerry.