Major topics include mental illness, sexual deviance, and the use of drugs. A survey of the social structure and organization of American society, with special reference to recent social changes. The character, structure, values, and ideology of American social movements are examined from a sociological perspective. Specific topics include urban demographic changes and other population trends, as well as changes in the conduct of work, family life, and recreation. An inquiry into the institutional bases of gender roles and gender inequality, cultural perspectives on gender, gender socialization, feminism, and gender-role change.
Emphasis is on contemporary American society.
A sociological approach to the world of work. Occupational careers and personal experiences in the bureaucratic organizations of modern industrial society are investigated. Major theoretical approaches, including functionalism, conflict, and symbolic interactionism. Original works of major theorists in historical perspective. An analysis of race-related issues, focusing mainly on American society.