An introduction to the basic sociological theories and methods for studying individuals, groups and institutions. Topics described and explained will include culture, socialization, families, gender, ageing and deviance. These concerns will be illustrated and developed with Canadian materials.
Sociology is about the world around you. It is the scientific study of people and their daily lives, their activities, work, play, crimes and everything in between. Beyond being an important cornerstone in social science inquiry, sociology is a state of mind, a way of examining our external world. To think sociologically is to question the world around us, the way things are and the way they have come to be. Throughout the coming months, you will receive a broad overview of the relationship individuals share with the norms, cultures, and societies to which they belong. By focusing our gaze in the areas of social inequality, race and ethnic conflict, crime and delinquency, social policy and social change, and the sociology of family and gender, you will gain insight into the functioning of the world around you. In addition, you will get hands on experience using the tools of sociology and leave with a basic understand on research methods and critical thinking.
- Teacher: Ellen Winofsky