Introduction to Sociology

The Study of Sociology allows us to understand the structure and dynamics of our society and other societies the intricate connection to human behavior within it and the individual life changes that affect it. Sociology examines the way in which humans interact with each other, whether as individuals, groups, organizations, communities, or various social and economic classifications including sex, age, race, or class, More than that, the course will take a look at other social institutions – family, economic, political, religious – and how they affect human attitudes, interactions and opportunities. Sociology addresses the sources and consequences of change in social arrangements and institutions that can alter or affect individuals and organizations in various ways. Throughout this course, students will take a look at culture, values, socialization, cooperation, conflict, inequality, deviance, violence, social conflict and control alongside the different social stratifications that make up our existence, our relationships and our everyday lives.

Students who complete this course will gain a comprehensive understanding of Sociology, its origins, theories, applications and implications. This course explores sociological processes that underlie everyday life. The course focuses on globalization, cultural diversity, critical thinking, new technology, and the growing influence of mass media.

Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to:

• Examine the field of sociology in terms of history, theoretical perspectives, research methods, and ethical issues
• Explain cultures and their role in social interactions
• Examine socialization and factors that affect socialization and social interactions
• Assess deviance and the reasons for deviant behaviors
• Analyze the different social stratifications
• Explain sexual and racial discrimination
• Critique inequalities in gender and age and their impacts on society
• Assess the various social groups and organizations within societies, and discuss their origin
• Analyze poverty and its effects on society
• Examine factors that influence decision making and choice
• Analyze the history of politics, globalization, and the effects of transformation
• Examine the role of family in socialization
• Examine diversity in U.S. families and study trends in marriages, remarriages, and divorce
• Examine issues in education and factors that affect the educational system in the United States
• Analyze religion in the U.S. and other world religions
• Examine urbanization, evolution of various cities, and growth in population in the U.S. and the world
• Analyze the history, theory of population growth, and demographics
• Explain the process of social change
• Examine the effects of growth and technology on social interactions and the environment

This class includes the following eText:
Henslin. (2011). Essentials of Sociology: A Down-to-Earth Approach; 9/E; ISBN: 020576312X

This course does not include tutoring.