Open to students in related disciplines. Contemporary Sociological Theory Considers the nature and purpose of sociological theory. Includes a survey of the most important contemporary theories and theorists. A critical examination of Weber's writings and his influence on social science. Studies the theory and practice of survey research.
Students collectively design and carry out one major survey.
Examines the influence of structuralism, phenomenology, critical theory, and cultural anthropology on contemporary sociological theory and practice. Considers the ways cultural analysis can be applied to a variety of pressing empirical problems. Social Demography International study of population structures, emphasizing comparison of developed and developing societies, and the way in which differing rates of population growth effect the patterns of social and economic change in these societies. Focuses on the caste system and its relationship to various religions of South Asia. Analyzes negative liabilities such as arrest, imprisonment, unemployment, and stigmatization, and positive assets such as education, occupation, income, and honor.