Sociology

Course summary

WHAT IS SOCIOLOGY? Sociology is ‘the study of society’. In sociology we will explore the idea that society is not the same everywhere: it is different at different times, in different places and different people see things in society differently, even within the same society. Sociology asks you to consider what actually happens and look for explanations for patterns of behaviour. WHY SHOULD I STUDY SOCIOLOGY? Everyone should study sociology! If you are interested in questions like: who does better at school – girls or boys? Is school becoming a place for the posh? Which social class are you? Are women portrayed fairly in the media? Are men being objectified in the media? Does violence in the media create violence in real life? Are we encouraged to laugh at the poor in the media? Why do people commit crimes? Who is more likely to be a victim? Does punishment work? Why are the rich getting away with their crimes? Then Sociology is for you! It has lots of synoptic links with other subjects including research methods in Psychology and even urban design in Geography. Some of the case studies are complimentary and will embed your understanding of some complex issues. COURSE CONTENT Students will study: 1. Families and households 2. Education 3. Theory and methods 4. The Mass Media 5. Crime and Deviance