Dr Paul O'Connor

Originally from Devon I was awarded my PhD in Sociology from the University of Queensland in 2009. I have taught Anthropology at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sociology at Lingnan University, and Religious Studies at Charles University, Prague. I am chiefly a sociologist of religion but explore area studies, ethnicity, and lifestyle sports. I have written extensively on Hong Kong society performing research with the Muslim community and working on issues of ethnicity. My first book Islam in Hong Kong explored thelives of Muslims in Hong Kong. I hold strong interests in pilgrimage exploring both the Hajj and secular sacred spaces. My work on the sociology of skateboarding has included collaborating with the Pushing Boarders project and the completion of my second monograph Skateboarding and Religion.

My current research continues to explore the sociology of skateboarding and is focal on issues of Lifestyle Religion. Some of my papers are available online via ResearchGate. Please contact me if you would like access to any of my journal articles and chapters.

Also on Google Scholar.

I hold the post of Senior Tutor for SPSPA, working closely with Pastoral Mentors and supporting staff in their roles as Personal Tutors.