PLT2160

Australia in the age of information

Paul James

8 points - 3 hours per week - First semester - Clayton

Objectives On successful completion of this subject, students should have a critical overview of the main approaches to understanding the nature of contemporary society. They should be able to assess the relevance of theories of postmodernity and post-industrialism to current developments in Australia and they should have a clear sense of some of the key themes in the debates over the shape of things to come.

Synopsis PLT2160 will juxtapose new developments in the field of social theory with current issues in Australian politics and society. The subject explores the nature and significance of the cultural and economic changes affecting Australian society. It does so in the context of theories drawn from the literature dealing with post-industrialism, postmodernity and the information society. It addresses themes ranging from those of globalism, nationalism, and the surveillance state to questions about the media and subjectivity, gender and identity, and class structure and the increasing division of rich and poor.

Assessment Essay (4000 words): 60% - Examination (2 hours): 40%

Prescribed texts

Kumar K From post-industrial to post-modern society: New theories of the contemporary world Blackwell, 1995

Recommended texts

Beck U Risk society Sage, 1992
Harvey D The condition of postmodernity Blackwell, 1989
James P (ed.) The state in question Allen and Unwin, 1996
Jamrozik A and others Social change and cultural transformation in Australia CUP, 1995

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