The course should empower students to apply the teachings of the great sociologists to current social situations and experiences. It should help them become more flexible and tolerant by demonstrating that the social world may be seen profitably from several points of view. At the same time, it should help them separate informed and useful views from those which are not. It is hoped that they will use this occasion for thinking more deeply and living more wisely. To invite students to the joys of intellectual enterprise.
Writing is a pain.
Thinking is a risk. This course is designed to make the writing and risking worthwhile and to encourage creative and playful thought. Since this course will take a lecture-discussion format, you cannot complete it satisfactorily unless you attend class regularly and participate fully. Class sessions make available materials you simply cannot get anywhere else. Notes are only the pegs on which we can hang our discussions.