SCY2100

Social Theory ( 6 points, SCA Band 1, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Michael Ure

Offered:
Caulfield First semester 2006 (Day)
Clayton Second semester 2006 (Day)

Synopsis: This unit aims to introduce students to some of the key theoretical perspectives in classical and contemporary sociology. We begin with a critical account of the early divergent traditions of Marx, Weber and Durkheim, as well as twentieth century action theories. We move on to a critical analysis of the more contemporary perspectives of structuralism, poststructuralism, feminisms, and the debates about risk society and post versus late modernity.

Objectives: Students who study this unit: + will acquire knowledge about a broad range of sociological theories, both classical and contemporary, as alternative and differing approaches to analysing social relations, and hence will gain an understanding of how sociological knowledge has developed over time; + will learn to critique certain accepted social theories and learn how to question dominant ideas and assumptions; + will develop their oral and written skills in order to analyse theoretical material.

Assessment: Essay (3 - 3500 words): 60%; test (1 - 1500): 25%; Tutorial participation: 15%.

Contact Hours: 2 hours (1 x 1 hour lecture and 1 x 1 hour tutorial) per week

Prerequisites: A first year sequence in Sociology or permission

Prohibitions: SCY3100