Social Theory Sociology 3140-002 Instructor: Bruce Rigby Fall 2009 Class Meetings: Tuesdays/Thursdays, 7:30-8:50a, BEHS 110 Office: BEHS 311 (Campus) Office Hours: Before class or by appointment Phone: 581-5842 or 581-6153 (message) E-mail: [email protected] Text: The Social Lens: An Invitation to Social and Sociological Theory, First Edition, 2007. Kenneth Allan. ISBN: 1-4129-1410-8 or 978-1-4129-1410-9 Course Prerequisite: Sociology 1010. Students who have not completed introduction to sociology should not enroll in this course. 1. Course Description This is a core course within the sociology major. Within this course we will examine classical sociological theory as well as modern theories and their impact on the study of sociology. The main goals of the course are: 1. To explore the contributions of major theorists in sociology; 2. To understand the strengths and limitations of each of these theories; 3. To develop a sense of how social theory has developed historically; 4. To evaluate and discuss theories and theoretical perspectives in a critical fashion. 2. Grading Procedures The final course grade will be determined by your performance on 3 equally weighted objective/short answer type examinations. The examinations will cover materials from the text, lecture, and class discussions. These examinations will contribute 75% of your final grade with the remaining 25% being determined by a brief paper explained in detail within this syllabus. The exams will consist of both multiple choice and short answer type questions. 3. Class Participation Participation in class discussions is an important part of the learning experience. Attendance is necessary to participate in class discussions. You will not be graded on class participation, but the format of this class is designed to encourage the sharing of ideas. These class discussions will enhance the learning experience for each of us throughout the semester.4. Tentative Schedule Week 1 (August 24-29) Introduction to the course and Section 1 Week 2 (August 31-Sept 5) Chap 1, Karl Marx and economics Week 3 (September 7-12) Chap 2, Max Weber Week 4 (September 14-19) Chap 3, Emile Durkheim and Religion Week 5 (September 22-26) Chaps 4 & 5, Mead/Simmel and Challenges of Gender and Race, Review for Exam #1 Week 6 (September 28-October 3) ***Exam #1 is Tuesday, Sept. 29*** Begin Chapter 6 Week 7 (October 5-10) Chaps 6 and 7, Structural Functionalism/Conflict and Critical Theories Week 8 ***Fall Break*** No Classes*** Week 9 (October 19-24) Chapter 8, Structures of Inequality Week 10 (October 26-31) Chapter 9, Interactionist Theories, Review Week 11 (November 2-7) *** Exam #2 is Tuesday, November 3rd*** Begin Chapter 10 Week 12 (November 9-14) Chapters 10 and 11, Exchange Theory and Constructing Society . ***Papers Due Thursday, November 12th*** Week 13 (November 16-21) Chapter 12, World Systems Theory Week 14 (November 23-26) Begin Chapter 13, Identity Politics ***Thanksgiving Break November 26th and 27th*** Week 15 (November 30-December 5) Chap13 cont’ & Chapter 14, Post Theories Week 16 (December 7-12) Review for exam *** Exam #3 is Thursday, December 10th***5. Semester Paper The required paper for this course may be done 1 of 2 ways. Each method is designed to encourage the student to look at theory as a tool to guide research and/or explain societal events or structures. Options for paper: A. Each student may choose one theorist discussed in this course and critically analyze that theorist’s contribution to social theory. The student will examine the validity of the theory proposed by that particular theorist, and identify the strengths and weaknesses of the theory. B. The student may choose a contemporary social topic (e.g., the war in Iraq, globalization, corporate bankruptcies) and apply theory as an explanatory tool regarding their choice of topics. You may choose any theoretical perspective discussed in the text and/or class to analyze the topic you have chosen. You should identify the particular theorist(s) you feel offer a useful perspective in understanding your topic. To be included in all papers: The paper should include the following: 1. The major theoretical perspective of the theorist(s) (e.g., conflict, feminist) 2. The theorists historical setting such as classical, modern, postmodern 3. What is the level of the analysis? (micro/macro) 4. The strengths and weaknesses of the theory This paper should not exceed 5 pages, typed and double spaced. At least 3 resources in addition to course material should be cited. Internet resources are acceptable if properly cite referenced. This paper is due no later than Thursday, November 12, 2009. Your instructor will be happy to help you choose your topic for this paper as well as recommend resources (articles/books) relevant to each theorist or topic. 6. Notice: University guidelines for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) require the following to be included in all syllabi: “The University of Utah seeks to provide equal access to its programs, services, and activities for people with disabilities. If you will need accommodations in the class, reasonable prior notice needs to be given to the Center for Disability Services, 162 Olpin Union Building, 581-5020 (V/TDD). CDS will work with you and the instructor to make arrangements for accommodations. All written information in this course can be made available in alternative format with prior notification to the Center for Disability Services.”7. Learning Environment and Testing Classes meeting at the University of Utah often present challenges with regard to learning and testing. The following expectations will be part of the student’s responsibility during this course. One: Talking with friends during class lectures will not be tolerated if it disrupts or interferes with other students trying to pay attention and take notes. Excessive talking is disrespectful to others. Students who engage in this type of activity may be asked to leave the classroom. Two: No cell phones should be in operation during class time. ANY usage of a cell phone or other electronic device during an exam will result in a failing grade for that exam. Three: To insure a quiet and proper environment for exams, students