Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Synopsis An introduction to sociological analysis with reference to the study of social inequality and the sociology of the family. The first section of the subject focuses on social differences related to class, gender and ethnicity. It examines competing theoretical perspectives about the reasons for social inequality, as well as considering arguments about how social differences are maintained, perpetuated and challenged. The family section examines the relationships of marriage and parenthood in modern industrial society. It focuses on the ways in which social, political and economic forces structure domestic life and make men and women experience marriage differently. Throughout the subject particular attention is given to different theoretical perspectives in sociology and to the role of evidence in sociological analysis.
Assessment Written (2000 words): 45% + One short assignment (500 words): 10% + Examination (2 hours): 45%