The sociologist and writer Francesco Alberoni died in Milan at the age of 93. He was the first Italian scholar to write about «sociology of consumption» and to investigate the then nascent phenomenon of stardom. He was considered the most important international scholar of «collective movements». But above all Alberoni – who died at the Milan Polyclinic – studied falling in love and the dynamics that regulate love throughout his professional life. In 1979 he published the essay “Innamoramento e amore” (Garzanti) which, translated into 24 languages, was so successful that he became the worldwide sociologist of the phenomenology of love, the investigator of the mysterious mechanisms by which the bond arises between two beings who choose each other. In 1968 Alberoni became rector of the University of Trento, remaining in office for two years until 1970. Visiting Professor of sociology at the University of Lausanne, he was then full professor of sociology at the University of Catania, before moving on in 1978 to the State University of Milan. Finally, he was rector from 1997 to 2001 of the Free University of Languages and Communication Iulm in Milan. He was born on December 31, 1929 in Piacenza.
FdI MEP Carlo Fidanza recalls him on Twitter: «I had the pleasure of meeting prof. Francesco Alberoni only in the last few years when, after a life dedicated to study and writing, he chose to embrace the political commitment with FratellidItalia. An extreme gesture of love, he that love has always plumbed and told in every nuance of him, for his beloved Italy. Thanks for everything Professor, we will miss him ».
«A great sociologist, a great writer, but above all a great man who honored me to the last with his friendship left us today. Francesco Alberoni has always known how to grasp the evolution of society and has told them with the simplicity and effectiveness that have made him become part of the family for many Italians. His proximity to the Brothers of Italy and his sincere esteem for Giorgia Meloni have been important for the growth of the center-right in Italy. My closeness to my son Paolo and to his other children and affections. To God, Francis,” said Senate President Ignazio La Russa.
