There are many approaches that sociology can take in the explanation of genocide; in fact, every field of sociology may contribute, from the study of social deviance (of Nazi leaders, e.g.) to the sociology of knowledge (how knowledge is gained and promulgated, and how definitions and explanations are socially structured and defined).

Sociology has been underutilized in the study of genocide; its many perspectives could add significantly to the field. A standard textbook such as Sociology in Our Times by Diana Kendall (2000) reveals how sociology can contribute:

• The social structure and interaction of everyday life during genocide;
• The racial, class, and stratification systems of genocide;
• The impact of genocide on families and kinship patterns;
• The relationship and impact of education and religion on genocide;
• The diverse cultural reactions to genocide and mass...