Perspectives in Sociology
one-way Exclusions
Lecture, tutorial, private study
Please note that course information listed in the Arts and Science Course Calendar supersedes any information listed on the Sociology website.
For the most current course offerings, registered Queen’s students should consult SOLUS.
Course Description
This course introduces students to foundational and contemporary perspectives in Sociology. Students will learn to develop and use their sociological imagination. Major classical sociological perspectives are explored and then questioned and challenged. We focus on critical analysis, anti-oppressive frameworks, and inclusive pedagogy, to develop a more comprehensive sociological understanding. Different perspectives are applied to culture, social structure, social institutions, social control, inequality, and resistance. Sociological methods, methodologies, and research tools are introduced.
Learning Outcomes
- Transcend “everyday thinking” about the social world and develop a “sociological imagination”.
- Define and critically discuss the fundamental ideas that have shaped sociology as a discipline.
- Critically examine the ways that sociology has been challenged by interdisciplinary thinkers.
- Identify and explain new perspectives that reframe traditional sociological thinking.
- Develop a sociological understanding of social structures, social institutions, and culture.
- Identify central issues related to social and structural inequalities, including the impact of racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, classism, and ableism on peoples' lives.
- Use intersectionality as an analytical tool.
- Be introduced to the methods, methodologies, and research tools that are used in the discipline of sociology.
- Develop tools to read peer-reviewed articles understand the main arguments developed within them.
- Learn how to discuss and grapple with readings with peers.