Sociology
www.coloradocollege.edu/academics/dept/sociology/
Professor LIVESAY; Associate Professors GIUFFRE (chair), MURPHY-GEISS, POPKIN,
W. ROBERTS (associate chair), WONG; Assistant Professor PASCOE; Visiting Instructor BAKKER
THE MAJOR — REQUIREMENTS:
A student majoring in sociology must complete 11 units of sociology courses including 229, 301 or 302, 334, and 450.
Sociology Courses
100 Thinking Sociologically
An introduction to sociological perspectives through investigation of the social sources of the self; the unequal distribution of power, privilege, and prestige; the social construction of institutions and their impact on human activities; and processes of social change.
1 unit —
105 Art and Society
Examines the influence of art on society and of society on art, including the use of art as propaganda and social protest, the social sources of creativity, the relation between artists and audiences, the roles of patrons and critics, and the workings or arts organization.
Also listed as Film and New Media Studies 103.
1 unit —
107 Inequality
The causes of inequalities of wealth, income, power, and prestige. The effects of economic deprivation on personal life. The reproduction of inequality from generation to generation. The possibilities of the elimination of gross social inequalities. (Not offered 2012-13).
1 unit
109 Social Psychology
(Not offered 2012-13).
1 unit
112 Gender Inequality
How sex roles shape our experiences. Sources and consequences of the differences between males and females. Biological differences, cross-cultural patterns, socialization processes, participation in the economy and the family. Possibilities for and consequences of changing sex roles. Meets the Critical Perspectives: Diverse Cultures and Critiques requirement. (Not offered 2012-13).
1 unit
113 Racial Inequality
The study of race as a dimension of inequality in the United States, Western Europe, Africa and Latin America. Individual and institutional forms of racism and discrimination. Historical, comparative and theoretical perspectives. (No credit if taken after SO/CS233). Meets the Critical Perspectives: Diverse Cultures and Critiques requirement. Meets the Critical Perspectives: Social Inequality requirement.
Also listed as Race and Ethnic Studies 113.
1 unit —
115 Creativity: Theory and Practice
Examines creativity from both a theoretical and a practical standpoint. The course is divided into three sections. The first explores theoretical material on creativity as an individual process and practical exercises on generating creative material. The second examines creativity as a product of social groups, especially as this relates to the issue of 'craft'. The third focuses on creativity as it is tied to particular times and places and practical issues of making creative products public.
Also listed as English 215 and Film and New Media Studies 105.
1 unit —
116 Global Inequality
This course introduces the global roots and dimensions of recent social change emphasizing development as a transnational project designed to integrate the world. Economic and political globalization and the powerful counter-movements responding to rising inequality in the global south are explored during the course. Meets the Critical Perspectives: Diverse Cultures and Critiques requirement. Meets the Critical Perspectives: Global Cultures requirement. May meet either the Critical Perspectives: Global Cultures or Social Inequality requirement. Meets the Critical Perspectives: Social Inequality requirement.
1 unit —
118 Deviance and Social Control
An examination of rule and norm-breaking behavior and theories about why individuals and groups engage in such behaviors. This course focuses on how a sociological understanding of deviance is distinct from biological and psychological explanations. The topics to be considered include the origins and functions of deviance, the institutional production and categorization of deviance, the impact of deviance on personal and social identity, deviant careers and the relationship between deviance and social change. Meets the Critical Perspectives: Global Cultures requirement. Meets the Critical Perspectives: Social Inequality requirement.
1 unit —
130 Environmental Sociology
The relationship between human societies and their natural and built environments. Topics may include the social construction of nature; the relationships between capitalism, materialism, and environmental degradation at local and global levels; urban development and growth; environmental racism; environmental justice and activism; the politics of environmental regulation and resource management; and the prospects for environmental sustainability. Meets the Critical Perspectives: Diverse Cultures and Critiques requirement. (Not offered 2012-13).
1 unit
152 Engaging the Global: Health, Development and Citizenship
This quarter-unit adjunct course surveys multiple aspects of global engagement, including global health, sustainable development, and global citizenship. Introduces students to relevant academic debates about each of these domains of global practice and the broader moral and ethical context of global engagement, focusing on issues of responsibility, accountability, and community participation. Meets weekly over the course of a semeste
.25 unit —
157 Beyond Development: Andean Social Movements and Their
Meets the Critical Perspectives: Diverse Cultures and Critiques requirement. (Not offered 2012-13).
1.5 units
190 Topics in Sociology
Examination of a variety of sociological issues and problems. Topics will vary from year to year depending on the interests and expertise of the faculty.
1 unit —
214 Sociology of Religion
The study of the social organization and function of religion with emphasis on its interaction with other ideas, social structures, and processes. Consideration of major theorists (Durkheim, Weber, Troeltsch) will be integrated with contemporary socio-religious issues such as secularization, fundamentalism, televangelism, new religious movements, globalization, and the relations between religion and race, class, and gender. (No credit if taken after SO114.)
Prerequisite: Any 100-level SO course or consent of instructor.
1 unit —
218 Political Sociology
A sociological examination of the nature of power in modern society, with a focus on capitalist democracies. Emphasis will be on the relationship between the state and the social structures of capitalist society. Topics may include the politics of the welfare state, policy-making, regulation, and political participation, among other issues. Meets the Critical Perspectives: Diverse Cultures and Critiques requirement. Meets the Critical Perspectives: Social Inequality requirement.
Prerequisite: Any 100 level SO course or consent of instructor.
1 unit —
219 The Sociology of Health and Illness
While modern medicine has claimed credit for the vast improvements in human health and life expectancy that characterized the 20th century, historical and sociological research has demonstrated that this 'revolution in health' was the result of changes in social structure and social life. The course traces the emergence of modern medicine and public health as agencies of social control and challenges bio-medicine's understanding of human health and health inequalities as essentially biological phenomena that are unaffected by social factors. (Not offered 2012-13).
Prerequisite: Any 100-level SO course or consent of instructor.
1 unit
229 Sociological Research Design
Survey of the variety of methods of sociological research, both quantitative and qualitative, focusing particularly on survey and interview, field research, content analysis, secondary analysis, experimentation, and historical-comparative methods. Labs will cover the basics of quantitative analysis and computer training in SPSS and N6. Includes the examination of exemplars from the sociological literature, as well as practice of hands-on research skills and sociological writing. Meets the Critical Perspectives: Quantitive Reasoning requirement.
Prerequisite: Any 100 level sociology course or consent of instructor.
1 unit —
230 The Media
Examination of the media as an American institution with emphasis on newspapers, movies, and television. How organizational routines affect what is produced, the issues of the construction of reality, hegemony and socialization. The media as a mobilizing force and expression of community voices. The transformation of the media in the age of zines and the Internet. (Not offered 2012-13).
Prerequisite: Any 100-level SO course or consent of instructor.
1 unit
234 Sociology of Women from a Global Perspective
Economic agreements, existence of multinational corporations, information technology, and dissemination of popular culture all remind us that globalism is real, diminishing national boundaries and changing people's lives. This course will cover issues women encounter globally. Utilizing comparative historical perspective we will study the role of religion, nationalism, and secularism in shaping women's roles. We will also examine issues such as women's role in political parties and governments, education, health and the effect of international agreements on women's status. (Also listed as WS 234.) (Not offered 2012-13).
Prerequisite: One 100 level SO course.
1 unit
235 Sociology of Family
An exploration of the social history of the American family, from its extended kinship form through the development of the nuclear family ideal, to the more varied forms existing in contemporary society. Emphasis is placed on how gender and race structure relationships within the family as well as the family forms themselves. Meets the Critical Perspectives: Diverse Cultures and Critiques requirement. Meets the Critical Perspectives: Social Inequality requirement.
Prerequisite: Any 100-level SO course or consent of instructor.
Also listed as Feminist & Gender Studies 235.
1 unit —
237 Latino Immigration and Social Change
Since the early 1980s, both legal and undocumented immigration to the United States have reached historic highs. This course examines contemporary migration from Latin America and how it has transformed urban and rural areas in the U. S. and prompted new questions about racial and ethnic diversity and immigrant rights. After considering the historical linkages between Latin America and the U. S. and the conditions that have generated high levels of migration, the course assesses urban economic restructuring and the ethnic and gendered divisions of labor, the role of immigrant networks in international migratory processes and immigrant organizing initiatives. Meets the Critical Perspectives: Diverse Cultures and Critiques requirement. Meets the Critical Perspectives: Social Inequality requirement.
Prerequisite: Any 100-level SO course or consent of instructor.
1 unit —
241 The Nonprofit Sector
An exploration of the history, structure, and functions of the nonprofit sector especially in the United States. Topics will include philanthropy and voluntarism, the mixed (public-nonprofit) economy, the roles of the nonprofit sector in filling gaps left by the market and the state and in producing social capital, the rise of international nongovernmental organizations, and the emergence of new hybrid social enterprises with double - and triple-bottom lines.
Prerequisite: Any 100 level SO class or consent of instructor.
1 unit —
243 Social Movements
An examination of the conditions that facilitate social movement activism and the strategic choices activists face as their movements develop. Analysis of the changing grievances and goals of social movements in late modern societies. Examples from recent social movements of the left and right, such as the civil rights, student, women's, environmental, anti-tax, and anti-abortion movements. (Not offered 2012-13).
Prerequisite: Any 100-level SO course or consent of instructor.
1 unit
246 Sociology of Health and Medicine
Presents a sociological alternative and complement to the bio-medical paradigm and critically examines public health, the healthcare system, and medicine in their larger social, economic, and political milieus. Topics may address the social determinants of health; domestic and global health-related inequities; policy; and health work as a profession.
Prerequisite: Any 100 level sociology class or consent of instructor.
1 unit —
247 Sociology of Developing Countries
This course is an introduction to the sociology of 'third world' development and provides and overview of the causes and consequences of economic growth and social development in Latin America, Asia, and Africa. After reviewing the historical creation of the 'global south' and the theoretical explanations of development and underdevelopment, the course focuses on emerging trends associated with the current era of globalization including the changing international division of labor, the dominance of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank and associated neoliberal economic policies, economic integration in the Western hemisphere, international migration, and both grassroots and state development initiatives. (Meets the AP:B requirement.) Meets the Critical Perspectives: Diverse Cultures and Critiques requirement. May meet either the Critical Perspectives: Global Cultures or Social Inequality requirement.
Prerequisite: Any 100-level SO course or consent of instructor.
1 unit —
257 Globalization and Immigration on the U.S.-Mexico Border
The current era of globalization has generated the apparent contradiction between the free flow of capital across borders and restrictive immigration policy. This course will examine these trends as they apply to the U. S. -Mexican border region and will consider issues such as the following: the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the multifaceted nature of integration between U. S. and Mexican economies, the increase in low wage jobs in the U. S. economy requiring higher levels of Latino immigration, economic development in Mexico that has generated emigration to the US, and US and Mexican immigration policies including the militarization of the US-Mexican border. Meets the Critical Perspectives: Diverse Cultures and Critiques requirement. (Not offered 2012-13).
Prerequisite: Any 100-level SO course, Soph standing, Spanish language skills recommended and consent of instructor.
1 unit
258 Contested Masculinities
This course draws on feminist theory, institutional analysis and sociohistorical study to consider masculinity's meanings and practices. Male power, male pain and group-based differences among men are examined. A specific topic (sports, war/the military, social change movements, individual violence, religion) is covered in depth to assess how men sustain, resist and recreate available forms of masculinity. Requirements include an original research project. Our goal is to understand masculinity's power in shaping society and our power to reshape masculinity. (Also listed as Women's Studies 258.) (Not offered 2012-13).
Prerequisite: Any 100 level SO course or consent of instructor.
1 unit
260 Symbolic Interaction
An examination of the major principles and arguments of symbolic interactionism, an approach to the social world that privileges micro-level phenomena. Particular attention to interactional accomplishments of self and identity, the nature, structure, and norms of social interaction, processes of perception and categorization; and interactional regulation of bodies and emotions.
Prerequisite: Any 100-level SO course or consent of instructor.
1 unit —
265 Immigrant Communities in Colorado
The changing demographics of front range communities in Colorado and the socio-economic conditions that generate poverty will be examined as a case study of immigration theory. The increasing diversity of Colorado Springs, Denver, and Pueblo, due in part to high levels of immigration particularly from Latin America, creates new challenges for the city including the provision of adequate housing and social services and racial and ethnic integration in public schools and other institutions. This community based learning course offers students the opportunity to volunteer with a local organization serving immigrants. Particular emphasis will be placed on student teaching of English as a Second Language classes to recently arrived immigrants. Meets the Critical Perspectives: Diverse Cultures and Critiques requirement. (Not offered 2012-13).
Prerequisite: Any 100-level SO course or consent of instructor Spanish language skills recommended. Must complete 1/2 block & extended format to receive credit.
1 unit
280 Sociology of Education
Functions of the school in modern society. The school as a social system and as a formal organization. Development and allocation of resources to public education. Impact of social and technological change on the school. The school as an agent of social control and of innovation and change. Problems of education in the urban setting, including the desegregation issue. (No credit if taken after SO380.) (Not offered 2012-13).
Prerequisite: Any 100-level SO course or consent of instructor.
1 unit
290 Advanced Topics in Sociology:
A more specialized examination of a variety of sociological issues and problems. Topics will vary from year to year depending on the interests and expertise of the faculty.
Prerequisite: Any 100 level SO class or consent of instructor.
1 unit —
301 Quantitative Research Methods
Fundamental issues in quantitative research design, data collection, and analysis. It focuses on more advanced analytical techniques, including spatial and regression analysis, making use of core software programs such as Stata, SPSS and GIS. Emphasis on the practical application of statistical methods to analyze sociological data, as well as the interpretation and presentation of results. Required of majors who do not take SO 302-Qualitative Research Methods.
Prerequisite: Sociology 229 or consent of instructor.
1 unit —
302 Qualitative Research Methods
Prepares students to conceptualize, design, and conduct research and to analyze and interpret data obtained through qualitative methods such as field research, participant observation, in depth interviewing, narrative analysis and action research. Required of majors who do not take SO 301-Quantitative Research Methods.
Prerequisite: Sociology 229 or consent of instructor.
1 unit —
303 Sociology of Sexuality
An advanced examination of the ways in which sexual identities, desires and practices are socially constructed and, as such, how they vary historically and culturally. Addresses a range of theoretical and methodological approaches that have contributed to the sociological study of sexuality, including psychoanalytic theory, survey research, social constructionism, feminist theory, critical race theory and queer theory. Specific topics include the political economy of sex; the construction of sexual identities; intersections of sexuality, gender, race and class; social movements; sexuality and institutions; families; marriage 'moral panics.' Offered in some years as a field research and writing course.
Prerequisite: Any 200-level Sociology course and Consent of Instructor.
Also listed as Feminist & Gender Studies 303.
1 unit —
310 Internship in Social Organization
Course designed for the student to intern in an organization which is closely related to the work of one or more standard sociology courses. Students will test a body of classroom theory or description against 'reality. ' Students will examine and describe the structure and workings of the organization and be of assistance to the organization. Must be arranged at least one block in advance. May be taken as a block course(s) for 1 or 2 units, as a yearlong course for 1 unit, or over 4 blocks for 1/2 unit.
.5 to 2 units —
312 Communities & Networks
How different types of community structures allow for different types of individual and group actions - deviance and conformity, successful and unsuccessful challenges to outside authority, the emergence of spectacular subcultures. Both historical and more contemporary case studies. Emphasis on network theory and its applications, using computer programs to analyze relations among actors. No prior programming experience is necessary.
Prerequisite: Any 200-level SO course or consent of instructor.
1 unit —
314 Sociology of Culture
Examines the social base for cultural institutions, for constructing cultural meanings and for producing both high and popular culture. Cultural institutions as seats of both power and conflict. The impact of cultures and subcultures on identity formation. The response of cultural institutions to the rise of postmodernity. (Not offered 2012-13).
Prerequisite: Any 200-level SO course or consent of instructor.
1 unit
316 Development and Underdevelopment in Africa
Explores the social organization of development and underdevelopment in Africa. Issues covered may include: the role of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) in failed and weak state contexts; obstacles to political development and institution building; inequality and structures of global economic integration; the politics and impact of international aid; the critical status of women and their place in development; the impact of and organizational response to AIDS; the origins, impact, and resolution of civil conflict. Field study component entails extra expenses for students and requires an enrollment limit of 10 students (expandable depending on field site logistics). (Not offered 2012-13).
Prerequisite: Any 100-level SO course or consent of instructor.
1 unit
334 Social Theory
An overview of the efforts - from the Enlightenment to postmodernism - to identify patterns of social organization and trends of societal development, to understand how people produce and reproduce shared meanings, and to develop ways to criticize domination. Introductions to Marx, Durkheim, Weber, Simmel, Freud, Mead, Parsons, Habermas, feminist theories, Foucault, and Giddens.
Prerequisite: 2 SO courses & jr standing or consent of instructor.
2 units —
343 Independent Study:
Library or primary research or a combination thereof in an area of sociology in which the student has a personal interest, curiosity, or concern.
Prerequisite: consent of instructor & at least 1 200-level SO course. Must be taken as a block course or yearlong for 1 unit, or over 4 blocks for 1/2 unit.
.5 unit —
344 Independent Study:
Library or primary research or a combination thereof in an area of sociology or social psychology in which the student has a personal interest, curiosity, or concern.
Prerequisite: consent of instructor & at least 1 200-level SO course. Must be taken as a block course or yearlong course for 1 unit, or over 4 blocks for 1/2 unit.
.5 to 1 unit —
345 Research Topics in Sociology:
1 unit —
370 Modernity & Postmodernity
Examination of modern world views and forms of social organization. Consideration of whether current processes of socio-cultural and political-economic change signify a transition to a new postmodern epoch. The revolution in information technology, the increasing centrality of consumerism, globalization and the decline of the nation-state, the politics of identity, and the rediscovery of civil society. (Not offered 2012-13).
Prerequisite: Any 200-level SO course or consent of instructor.
1 unit
450 Senior Thesis
An independent project on a topic of the student's choice. The project might entail a position paper, empirical research designed to test a hypothesis or describe some phenomena, a theoretical piece dealing with an important sociological problem, or a combination of the above.
Prerequisite: consent of instructor & Major & Sociology 301 or 302. May be arranged any 2 blocks 1-7.
2 units —
451 Senior Seminar
Advanced study of a topic of sociological significance.
1 unit —