Various social problems are highlighted such as racism, sexism, militarism, alienation, economic crisis, poverty, inequality, environmental destruction, homelessness, AIDS and addiction. Through the use of classroom discussion, readings, activities and assignments, students will develop an understanding of the process of structured social inequality and the societal factors that influence this process. Students will also gain a greater awareness of the role of media in constructing our views and attitudes about social situations. Lectures and activities will be designed with the purpose of promoting discussion and creative thinking. Students will be expected to come prepared to discuss the assigned readings.
Students are responsible for reading materials prior to class.
Discussions and activities are not intended to merely summarize the reading, but rather to provide an extension and application of the assigned text. Exams will cover all reading assignments, class discussions, lectures and other activities. Three exams will be given during the semester. Exam dates are listed in the tentative schedule . No make-up exams will be given if you have not contacted me prior to the exam with a valid and documented reason for missing.