Introduction to Sociology

Course Coordinator: UrfatAnjem Mir

Email of course coordinator: urfat[at]aud[dot]ac[dot]in

Pre-requisites: NA

Aim:

This course is designed to introduce Sociology as a field of inquiry and analysis. What is the sociological imagination? How have sociological perspectives shed light on the particular contexts they analyzed, and on contemporary social processes? Is a social problem the same as a sociological problem? We will read from a wide range of thinkers and writers analysing diverse social phenomena. This is an introductory core course of the BA Sociology Honours programme, and lays the basic foundation for other courses that students will take as they develop their disciplinary foundation in Sociology in greater depth over subsequent semesters.

Brief description of modules/ Main modules:

• What is Sociology?
• Conceptual frameworks and approaches
• Sociological Issues and Concepts

Assessment Details with weights:

• One class presentation and two-page summary 15%
• Mid-semester exam 40%
• One take-home Assignment 15%
• Final exam 30%
• Total 100%

Reading List:

• Ritzer, George. 1996. Classical Sociological Theory. New York: McGraw Hill. (Chapter 1).
• Berger, P. 1963. Invitation to Sociology: A Humanistic Perspective, Harmondsworth, Penguin Books, (Chapters 1 and 2)

ADDITIONAL REFERENCE:

• Anthony Giddens. 1987. Social Theory and modern Society. Cambridge: Polity Press. (Chapter 1)
• Beteille, Andre. 2000. Sociology: Essays in Approach and Method, New Delhi, Oxford University Press. (Chapters 1 and 2)