Corpi e spazi alle origini della fotografia sociale americana

This essay analyses the importance of the tradition of social photography for the development of that branch of sociology – defined as visual – that uses images in the construction of its cognitive and empirical path. The works of the most important American social photographers are mentioned here in order to indicate how social photography has been a fundamental means for analysing the problems of the most marginal social strata and the destitute living conditions of the poor classes. A photograph capable not only of bearing witness, but also of assuming the value of a social document, capable not only of impressing public opinion but above all of promoting intentions of social and political reform.