Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit explores recent developments in political sociology. It takes up key contemporary thinkers to critically discuss various approaches to such important issues as social movements, autonomy, democracy, the public sphere, power, institutions, (the clash of) civilizations, religion and the political constitution of modernity.

Objectives

At the completion of this subject students should be able to: Understand at a developed (SCY2480) or advanced (SCY3480) level the key tenets and conditions of emergence of new social theories; Demonstrate a competent understanding of the historical development of contemporary social and political thought and the impact of global political, cultural and economic changes on this development; Demonstrate a capacity to critically analyse conflicting views, arguments and evidence on current theories of power, ideology, agency and social transformation; Demonstrate transferable information management, communication and interpersonal skills such as listening, reading, oral communication, research, analysis, synthesis, argument formation, and related computer skills, as well as a range of self-management skills (seminar preparation, study habits, essay preparation).

Assessment

Written work 45%
Exam 45%
Participation 10%

Contact hours

One 2-hour seminar per week

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Sustainability, environment and society
Sociology
Politics

Prerequisites

A first-year sequence in Sociology or permission

Prohibitions

SCY 3480