The course considers the relationship between the law and other institutions of contemporary society such as politics, the economy, education, and science. The principal objects of analysis are the organizations, institutions, and ideologies involved in the acquisition, distribution, application, reproduction, and legitimation of social power. The course focuses specifically on the power structure of the United States with readings typically concerned with the social basis of power in the planning and policy environments. Designed for the student who may have particular interests in areas of study that go beyond the regular course offerings. Permission of the Department is required prior to registration, and a detailed typed prospectus must be submitted to the Chair as part of the request.
Students are limited to one independent study per semester.
A course or seminar offered from time to time to small groups of students working on special topics. Written permission of the instructor is required. History of Sociological Theory. The development of sociology as a discipline within the context of Western social, political, and intellectual history. Analysis and comparison of the major schools of sociological theory.