Introduction to Sociology

Catalog description

Is one's identity individually or socially constructed? What distinguishes generalizations from stereotypes and what purposes, if any, do they serve? What are the impacts of globalization on our communities, countries and world? In this course, students will grapple with these essential questions in examining the world through the lens of a sociologist. Sociology offers an empirically-based methodology for critically evaluating society-from issues of individual agency to the roots of global institutions. Culture, norm stratification, systems, structure, social institutions, social change, the organization of social behavior and its relationship to society and social conditions are emphasized. Students will challenge their own preconceived notions and evaluate these constructs in terms of their relevancy to contemporary issues.