As a part of the course students have the possibility to visit the Budapest Stock Exchange and get inside experience about the working of one of the most important market institutions that is the stock market. The lectures give an overview about the traditional Hungarian popular culture, especially about folk customs and folk poetry. As introduction we define the concept of folklore as we can recognise it from everyday experiences, even in America. The course is designed to give an introduction to the structural changes of Hungarian society after 1945. It attempts to analyse social stratification issues and gives a comprehensive overview employing contemporary social surveys relevant to the field of social stratification.
Social stratification is an important concept that relates to all societies.
In exploring the themes outlined below, basic sociological concepts are discussed. Field studies are also included in the course. A history course claiming new categorisation - both political and economic, not only for Hungary but surrounding countries as well. The common practice of dividing Europe by the Iron Curtain to western and Eastern spheres is a simplification now lacking even the basis of the relatively short-lived presence of communism. Central Europe, and especially the Carpathian Basin with the river Danube, has served as a meeting point between Eastern and Western cultures throughout history, and this course attempt to highlight this role bringing forth explanations for current events as well as contemplating possible prospects in the future development of post-communistic countries.