Mercer Times

Howard Francis Taylor, a prominent figure in the field of sociology and a leading critic of IQ tests, passed away at the age of 83 last spring. Taylor's impact on the academic world will be commemorated in a memorial service scheduled for this Friday.

Throughout his career, Taylor challenged the prevailing notions surrounding IQ testing and its implications on race and intelligence. Colleague Paul DiMaggio described Taylor as a pioneer in the critique of IQ testing, noting his meticulous statistical arguments that questioned the validity of such assessments.

Elijah Anderson, Sterling Professor of Sociology at Yale University, fondly remembered Taylor as a friend and mentor, highlighting his expertise in race relations and his ability to infuse humor into his teachings. Margaret Andersen, a close collaborator of Taylor's, praised his ability to convey complex ideas with clarity and wisdom, describing him as having "the sharp and probing mind of a scientist with the soul of a humanist."

Taylor's contributions extended beyond academia, as he played a pivotal role in shaping the Department of African American Studies at Princeton University. He was instrumental in recruiting renowned scholars and fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment.

Reflecting on Taylor's teaching style, Tera Hunter, chair of the Department of African American Studies, emphasized his dedication to challenging students' perspectives and encouraging critical thinking. Mitchell Duneier, chair of the Department of Sociology, praised Taylor's ability to make complex subjects accessible to students from varying backgrounds, making him a beloved figure on campus.

Former students of Taylor also shared their admiration for his teaching methods and intellectual curiosity. Masamichi Sasaki, an emeritus professor of sociology, commended Taylor for stimulating students' sociological imagination, while Maitrayee Bhattacharyya, a senior associate dean at Brown University, highlighted his groundbreaking scholarship on race and intelligence.

In recognition of his groundbreaking research, Taylor received several prestigious awards, including the DuBois-Johnson-Frazier Award for distinguished research in race and ethnic relations from the American Sociological Association.

Howard Francis Taylor leaves behind a lasting legacy in the field of sociology and academia. His impact on students, colleagues, and the broader academic community will be remembered for years to come.