Historically, the relationships between sociology, sociologists and institutions of higher learning, as with other sites of power, have been varied and complex. As such, the sociology of the institutionalization of sociology serves as a window on the sociology of the host society. In Quebec, sociology made its first appearance outside the walls of the institution, particularly in the work of Léon Gérin. It was subsequently institutionalized, initially at McGill University, under the aegis of businessmen. In Francophone universities, the way was opened for teaching the social sciences and sociology (before it acquired its autonomy) by members of the clergy. Afterwards, it entered a period of prestige, followed by a period of crisis which has provoked debate over the challenges confronting the discipline's future.