SCY2460 - Men, masculinity and society

Leader(s): Andrew Singleton

Offered

Caulfield Second semester 2009 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit explores recent sociological analyses of men and masculinity, which start from the realisation that men's lives are just as much gendered as are those of women. Topics covered include: the social construction of masculinity; men and popular culture; the contemporary crisis in masculinity; self-help literature for men; men's magazines; the men's movement; male bodies; men and sport; men and domesticity; aggression and violence.

Objectives

Students completing this unit will:

1. Develop a critical awareness of the status of men in society.
2. Be introduced to different sociological approaches to the study of men and masculinity.
3. Possess an insight into the various cultural constructions of masculinity.
4. Develop their analytical skills to critically understand and interpret the status of men in society.

Assessment

Mass Media Assignment (1000 words): 25%
Research Essay (2500): 50%
Examination (1 hour): 25%

Contact hours

2 hours (1 x 2 hour seminar) per week

Prerequisites

A first-year sequence in Sociology or permission

Prohibitions

SCY3460