This introductory sociology course is specifically developed for the honor students to mindfully examine the connection between personal experiences and the social structure. The course will explore how social forces in society influence our behavior and shape our thoughts. After all, we are the product of our society and vice versa. Students will be introduced to the basic concept of micro/macro sociological analysis, sociological imagination, mindfulness, and principles of sociological reasoning.  Many societal issues will also be examined through the application of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, the students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology and its development; the social construction of reality; and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, social interaction, self and society, bureaucracy, creativity, and work, social stratification, gender inequality, family structure and relationships. Finally, we will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection. The course is mainly designed to make the learning process more interactive and give students a better foundation and feedback for their subsequent coursework in social science and in the liberal arts. The course will: a) create an environment that encourages active participation, group interaction, and discussion in the learning process; b) actively encourage critical thinking through mindfulness and sociological imagination; c) use different techniques in the teaching and learning process to develop a deeper understanding of social-psychological reasoning, and d) I will also assess and evaluate your work and give timely feedback.

Required Text: James M. Henslin.2020. Sociology:  A Down to Earth Approach

Reading Packet.

Gradings:

Exams- 60%

Course project- 24%

Group workshops- 12%

Quiz- 4%

This sociology class is designed to understand how social forces shape our behavior and what our role is in influencing the society’s structure. In the process, we will cover the science of sociology and its relevance to everyday life. During the course, the students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination, mindfulness, and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, the students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as: culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, sociology of health and medicine, love, marriage, and divorce. In this course, we will: a) create an environment that encourages active participation and group interaction in the learning process; b) actively encourage critical thinking through mindfulness and sociological imagination; c) use interactive techniques in the teaching and learning process to develop a deeper understanding of social-psychological reasoning, and d) we will assess and evaluate your work and give timely feedback.

Required Text: James M. Henslin.2020. Sociology:  A Down to Earth Approach

Gradings:

Exam-  66%

Quizzes - 10%

Class participation-  24%.

The Signature Course (UGS 302 and 303) introduces first-year students to the university’s academic community through the exploration of new interests. The Signature Course is your opportunity to engage in college-level thinking and learning.

OBJECTIVES

This course examines socio-cultural, spiritual, and psychological aspects of love and relationships. The first part of the course is designed to show the unconditional love and its characteristics, the power of now, and the nature of being. The second portion will emphasize the historical, social, and psychological dimensions of love.

The course will offer insights to understand how love and intimacy interact with rapid social, economic, and cultural change, and how the subsequent change transformed the social world and the meaning of love in modern societies. As we journey through the course, the students will become familiar with the aspects of self and identity; differentiation in the context of love in the modern age; the family and the individual; the impact of industrialization on private lives and the public order. The course will also examine the intercultural aspect of love and intimacy, personal choice, and arranged marriages.

During the course, students will engage in online paired-learning exercises and team-based workshops to assess and interpret the information on patterns of relationships. The workshops are also designed to further display a clear and critical understanding of the theories, ideas, and concepts through written, oral, and virtual communication. These activities are similarly aimed to cultivate teamwork and collaborative decision-making in the learning process.

Online Course Format

Since this is fully-online course, the students are expected to attend instructor-led virtual class meetings on MWF during the set time from 10-11:30. The course will use a hybrid blended format (i.e. a mix of web based and online set time discussion).

COURSE EVALUATION AND GRADES

• Virtual participation and group workshops %50
• Short love and kindness project %15
• Midterm exam %35

Course Description and Objectives: This sociology class is designed to understand how social forces shape our behavior and what our role is in influencing the society’s structure. In the process, we will cover the science of sociology and its relevance to everyday life. During the course, the students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination, mindfulness, and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, the students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as: culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, sociology of health and medicine, love, marriage, and divorce. In this course, we will: a) create an environment that encourages active participation and group interaction in the learning process; b) actively encourage critical thinking through mindfulness and sociological imagination; c) use interactive techniques in the teaching and learning process to develop a deeper understanding of social-psychological reasoning, and d) we will assess and evaluate your work and give timely feedback.

This course may be used to fulfill the SOCIAL AND BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES (Core Component 080)
of the university core curriculum and addresses the following four core objectives established by the
Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board: communication skills, critical thinking skills, teamwork,
and social responsibility.

Course Reader: Your sociology reader includes both book chapters and selections of articles on certain
topics for in-depth analysis and discussion. These required readings are an important part of the
course and supplemental to the lecture. You will be tested on them. If we don’t concentrate on these
readings during the lectures and the labs, you are responsible to read them by the due dates and for
the exams.

Groups: Students will be assigned to a group at the beginning of the semester that will form the basis for discussions and group workshops throughout the course.

Evaluation: Evaluation will be based on (a) three one-hour examinations (each exam counts 22%); (b) quizzes (10%); class participation / group workshops (24%). Taken together, the exams will amount 66% of the course grade. They will include multiple choice, and short answer questions. The tests are reviews of material covered in the class, group discussions, films, and readings. Exams will be taken in class (except the last one). No make-up quizzes.

“All the particles of the world are in love and looking for lovers.” --Rumi

 OBJECTIVES

Course Description

Sociology 308L examines the spiritual, social, cultural, and psychological perspectives regarding the ideas of love and intimacy. The first part of the course will examine unconditional love and its characteristics, the presence of love, and the nature of being. The second portion will emphasize the historical, social, and psychological dimensions of love. The course will offer insights to understand how love and intimacy interact with rapid social, economic, and cultural change, and how the subsequent change transformed the social world and the meaning of love both in the West and in the Middle East. As we journey through this course, you will become familiar with: the aspects of self and identity; differentiation in the context of love in the modern age; the family and the individual; the impact of industrialization on private lives and the public order; race and gender communication. We will also explore the intercultural aspect of love and intimacy in the United States, personal choice and arranged marriages in Asia and the Middle East. During the course, students are required to engage in paired-learning exercises or group workshops to assess and interpret the information on patterns of relationships. These workshops are also designed to further display a clear and critical understanding of the theories, ideas, and concepts through written, oral, and visual communication. These activities are similarly aimed to cultivate teamwork and collaborative decision-making in the learning process. This course brings some of the current research and thinking, not only from the social perspective, but also from a wide variety of intellectual disciplines.

Readings: Course Packet

Ekhart Tolle. 2004. Power of Now.         

Course Evaluation

1)    A Research Paper and presentation  26%

2)    Two exams 50% (each exam counts 25%).

3)    Quizzes 8%.

4)    Class participation/group workshops 16%. 

Description

This course will introduce the students to different aspects of creative insights, human consciousness, social processes, and the ‘invention of reality’.  The class will bring the intellectual abilities and intuitive inclinations together as a complementary process. We’ll pursue and encourage elements of mindfulness, intuition, and creativity at the individual, organizational, societal, and environmental levels.  The course will draw upon a wide range of sources- lectures, group discussions, books, articles, artistic films, documentaries–in order to better understand and appreciate the interconnectedness and interrelationship between ‘inner’ (personal) and the other (‘social’) reality. The media will be presented as technical methods of representation of "social reality" and socio-cultural phenomena. No technical aspects will be emphasized.

Required Texts

A selection of articles will be, prepared in a packet.

Michael Schwalbe. 2007. The Sociologically Examined Life: Pieces of the Conversation.

Otis Carney. 2002. Wars R’ Us: Taking Action for Peace.

Paulo Coelho. 1995. The Alchemist: A Fable About Following Your Dream   

Joseph Campbell. 2004. Pathways to Bliss: Mythological and Personal  Transformation                                   

Mitch Albon. Tuesday with Morrie.

 Grading Policy             

20%  Short essays / Journal entries

20% Group Workshops and class participation

10%  Written Critiques of student paper

10% Oral Presentation

10% Final assessment

30% Final course project

The Signature Course (UGS 302 and 303) introduces first-year students to the university’s academic community through the exploration of new interests. The Signature Course is your opportunity to engage in college-level thinking and learning.

“All the particles of the world are in love and looking for lovers.” --Rumi

OBJECTIVES

Sociology 308 examines the social, cultural, psychological, and spiritual perspectives toward the ideas and experience of love. Some portion of the course will emphasize on the nature of the mind, human consciousness, and the state of Presence. The course will also offer insights to understand how love and intimacy interact with rapid social, economic, and cultural change, and how the subsequent change transformed the social world and the meaning of love. As we journey through this course, the students will become familiar with:  the aspects of self and identity in the context of love; the family and the individual; the impact of industrialization on private lives and the public order; race and gender communication; intercultural love and intimacy; personal choice and arranged marriages. During the course, students are required to engage in paired-learning exercises or group workshops to assess and interpret the information on patterns of relationships. These workshops are also designed to further display a clear and critical understanding of the theories, ideas, and concepts through written, oral, and visual communication. These activities are similarly aimed to cultivate teamwork and collaborative decision-making in the learning process.

Readings: Course Packet

Ekhart Tolle. 2004. Power of Now.         

Course Evaluation

1)    A Research Paper and presentation  26%

2)    Two exams 50% (each exam counts 25%).

3)    Quizzes 8%.

4)    Class participation/group workshops 16%. 

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% Three exams 60%Cass project and participation 8%Quiz 8 %

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

“All the particles of the world are in love and looking for lovers.” --Rumi

 OBJECTIVES

Course Description

Sociology 308L examines the spiritual, social, cultural, and psychological perspectives regarding the ideas of love and intimacy. The first part of the course will examine unconditional love and its characteristics, the presence of love, and the nature of being. The second portion will emphasize the historical, social, and psychological dimensions of love. The course will offer insights to understand how love and intimacy interact with rapid social, economic, and cultural change, and how the subsequent change transformed the social world and the meaning of love both in the West and in the Middle East. As we journey through this course, you will become familiar with: the aspects of self and identity; differentiation in the context of love in the modern age; the family and the individual; the impact of industrialization on private lives and the public order; race and gender communication. We will also explore the intercultural aspect of love and intimacy in the United States, personal choice and arranged marriages in Asia and the Middle East. During the course, students are required to engage in paired-learning exercises or group workshops to assess and interpret the information on patterns of relationships. These workshops are also designed to further display a clear and critical understanding of the theories, ideas, and concepts through written, oral, and visual communication. These activities are similarly aimed to cultivate teamwork and collaborative decision-making in the learning process. This course brings some of the current research and thinking, not only from the social perspective, but also from a wide variety of intellectual disciplines.

Readings: Course Packet

Ekhart Tolle. 2004. Power of Now.         

Course Evaluation

1)    A Research Paper and presentation  26%

2)    Two exams 50% (each exam counts 25%).

3)    Quizzes 8%.

4)    Class participation/group workshops 16%. 

Considering the media as a point of reference, the first-year students are encouraged to learn, engage, and critically examine how social reality is constructed, how it unfolds, and by what means our opinions are shaped and processed. We explore the link between the content and images presented in the media and the way we communicate, socialize, interact, and think about others and ourselves. Through visual media, participant observation, weekly workshops, oral presentations, and writings, the students de-construct and analyze specific cultural content that is relevant to their world. The students will explore the following issues: media and social construction of opinions, what's behind the mean world syndrome, wireless culture and its addiction, relationships and consumption, commodification of childhood/adolescence, marketing gender, idealization of beauty, social construction of fear, and spoiled identity.

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% Three exams 60%Cass project and participation 8%Quiz 8 %

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

The Signature Course (UGS 302 and 303) introduces first-year students to the university’s academic community through the exploration of new interests. The Signature Course is your opportunity to engage in college-level thinking and learning.

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% Three exams 60%Cass project and participation 8%Quiz 8 %

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

“All the particles of the world are in love and looking for lovers.” --Rumi

 OBJECTIVES

Course Description

Sociology 308L examines the spiritual, social, cultural, and psychological perspectives regarding the ideas of love and intimacy. The first part of the course will examine unconditional love and its characteristics, the presence of love, and the nature of being. The second portion will emphasize the historical, social, and psychological dimensions of love. The course will offer insights to understand how love and intimacy interact with rapid social, economic, and cultural change, and how the subsequent change transformed the social world and the meaning of love both in the West and in the Middle East. As we journey through this course, you will become familiar with: the aspects of self and identity; differentiation in the context of love in the modern age; the family and the individual; the impact of industrialization on private lives and the public order; race and gender communication. We will also explore the intercultural aspect of love and intimacy in the United States, personal choice and arranged marriages in Asia and the Middle East. During the course, students are required to engage in paired-learning exercises or group workshops to assess and interpret the information on patterns of relationships. These workshops are also designed to further display a clear and critical understanding of the theories, ideas, and concepts through written, oral, and visual communication. These activities are similarly aimed to cultivate teamwork and collaborative decision-making in the learning process. This course brings some of the current research and thinking, not only from the social perspective, but also from a wide variety of intellectual disciplines.

Readings: Course Packet

Ekhart Tolle. 2004. Power of Now.         

Course Evaluation

1)    A Research Paper and presentation  26%

2)    Two exams 50% (each exam counts 25%).

3)    Quizzes 8%.

4)    Class participation/group workshops 16%. 

Description

This course will introduce the students to different aspects of creative insights, human consciousness, social processes, and the ‘invention of reality’.  The class will bring the intellectual abilities and intuitive inclinations together as a complementary process. We’ll pursue and encourage elements of mindfulness, intuition, and creativity at the individual, organizational, societal, and environmental levels.  The course will draw upon a wide range of sources- lectures, group discussions, books, articles, artistic films, documentaries–in order to better understand and appreciate the interconnectedness and interrelationship between ‘inner’ (personal) and the other (‘social’) reality. The media will be presented as technical methods of representation of "social reality" and socio-cultural phenomena. No technical aspects will be emphasized.

Required Texts

A selection of articles will be, prepared in a packet.

Michael Schwalbe. 2007. The Sociologically Examined Life: Pieces of the Conversation.

Otis Carney. 2002. Wars R’ Us: Taking Action for Peace.

Paulo Coelho. 1995. The Alchemist: A Fable About Following Your Dream   

Joseph Campbell. 2004. Pathways to Bliss: Mythological and Personal  Transformation                                   

Mitch Albon. Tuesday with Morrie.

 Grading Policy             

20%  Short essays / Journal entries

20% Group Workshops and class participation

10%  Written Critiques of student paper

10% Oral Presentation

10% Final assessment

30% Final course project

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% Three exams 60%Cass project and participation 8%Quiz 8 %

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% Three exams 60%Cass project and participation 8%Quiz 8 %

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

The Signature Course (UGS 302 and 303) introduces first-year students to the university’s academic community through the exploration of new interests. The Signature Course is your opportunity to engage in college-level thinking and learning.

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% Three exams 60%Cass project and participation 8%Quiz 8 %

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

“All the particles of the world are in love and looking for lovers.” --Rumi

 OBJECTIVES

Sociology 308 examines the social, cultural, psychological, and spiritual perspectives toward the ideas and experience of love. Some portion of the course will emphasize on the nature of the mind, human consciousness, and the state of Presence. The course will also offer insights to understand how love and intimacy interact with rapid social, economic, and cultural change, and how the subsequent change transformed the social world and the meaning of love. As we journey through this course, the students will become familiar with:  the aspects of self and identity in the context of love; the family and the individual; the impact of industrialization on private lives and the public order; race and gender communication; intercultural love and intimacy; personal choice and arranged marriages. During the course, students are required to engage in paired-learning exercises or group workshops to assess and interpret the information on patterns of relationships. These workshops are also designed to further display a clear and critical understanding of the theories, ideas, and concepts through written, oral, and visual communication. These activities are similarly aimed to cultivate teamwork and collaborative decision-making in the learning process.

Readings: Course Packet

Ekhart Tolle. 2004. Power of Now.         

Course Evaluation

1)    A Research Paper and presentation  26%

2)    Two exams 50% (each exam counts 25%).

3)    Quizzes 8%.

4)    Class participation/group workshops 16%. 

Description

This course will introduce the students to different aspects of creative insights, human consciousness, social processes, and the ‘invention of reality’.  The class will bring the intellectual abilities and intuitive inclinations together as a complementary process. We’ll pursue and encourage elements of mindfulness, intuition, and creativity at the individual, organizational, societal, and environmental levels.  The course will draw upon a wide range of sources- lectures, group discussions, books, articles, artistic films, documentaries–in order to better understand and appreciate the interconnectedness and interrelationship between ‘inner’ (personal) and the other (‘social’) reality. The media will be presented as technical methods of representation of "social reality" and socio-cultural phenomena. No technical aspects will be emphasized.

Required Texts

A selection of articles will be, prepared in a packet.

Michael Schwalbe. 2007. The Sociologically Examined Life: Pieces of the Conversation.

Otis Carney. 2002. Wars R’ Us: Taking Action for Peace.

Paulo Coelho. 1995. The Alchemist: A Fable About Following Your Dream   

Joseph Campbell. 2004. Pathways to Bliss: Mythological and Personal  Transformation                                   

Mitch Albon. Tuesday with Morrie.

 Grading Policy             

20%  Short essays / Journal entries

20% Group Workshops and class participation

10%  Written Critiques of student paper

10% Oral Presentation

10% Final assessment

30% Final course project

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% Three exams 60%Cass project and participation 8%Quiz 8 %

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% 

Three exams 60%

Class project and participation 8%

Quiz 8%

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

The Signature Course (UGS 302 and 303) introduces first-year students to the university’s academic community through the exploration of new interests. The Signature Course is your opportunity to engage in college-level thinking and learning.

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% 

Three exams 60%

Class project and participation 8%

Quiz 8%

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

“All the particles of the world are in love and looking for lovers.” --Rumi

 OBJECTIVES

Sociology 308 examines the social, psychological, spiritual, and historical perspectives toward love and intimacy. It focuses on the cross-cultural diversity of passionate love and sexuality from early civilization in the East and West to the modern era. The course will offer insights to understand how love and intimacy interact with rapid social, economic, and cultural change, and how the subsequent change transformed the social world and the meaning of love. As we journey through this course, you will become familiar with: the aspects of self and identity; differentiation in the context of love in the modern age; the family and the individual; the impact of industrialization and capitalism on private lives and the public order; gender, love, and communication; love, health, and socialization; intercultural love and intimacy; personal choice and arranged marriages. Finally, we will look at the current state of love and aggression in modern democracies.  This course brings some of the current research and thinking, not only from the social perspective, but also from a wide variety of intellectual disciplines. Artistic films, documentaries, and other media will be presented as technical methods of representation of "social reality" to better understand and experience the subject.

 Readings: Course Packet – a selection of articles has been prepared in a packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24thSt.)

*Assigned readings with asterisk below can be found on Blackboard: http://courses.utexas.edu          

Format and Attendance: This course will use a combination lecture-discussion style format, with more emphasis on discussion. Attendance will be taken on a regular basis. Regular attendance is required and I expect that students will come to all classes- both lectures and discussions. Please note that: the repercussion of being absent a total of 4 or more classes for the entire spring semester (without justifiable reason) is that your grade will automatically be lowered by one letter. Unexcused absences will count against your grade.

 Grades: Are assigned based on the standard scale: 93-100%= A; 90-92.9% = A-; 87-89.9% = B+; 83-86.9%=B; 80-82.9%= B-; 77-79.9% = C+; 73-76.9%= C; 70-72.9%=C-; 67-69.9% = D+; 63-66.9= D; 60-62.9%= D-; There are no grading curves.

1) A research paper (4 – 5 pages) OR group paper (10 – 15 pages) on the subject of love, intimacy, relationships, or related issues. Course project and presentations constitute 25% of the final grade. The project is central to the course and the topic must be chosen by the student and/or the group and approved by the teaching assistant and the instructor.

2) Two exams 50% (each exam counts 25%)

3) Quizzes 9%

4) Class participation/group discussions 16%

Description

This course will introduce the students to different aspects of creative insights, human consciousness, social processes, and the ‘invention of reality’.  The class will bring the intellectual abilities and intuitive inclinations together as a complementary process. We’ll pursue and encourage elements of mindfulness, intuition, and creativity at the individual, organizational, societal, and environmental levels.  The course will draw upon a wide range of sources- lectures, group discussions, books, articles, artistic films, documentaries–in order to better understand and appreciate the interconnectedness and interrelationship between ‘inner’ (personal) and the other (‘social’) reality. The media will be presented as technical methods of representation of "social reality" and socio-cultural phenomena. No technical aspects will be emphasized.

Required Texts

A selection of articles will be, prepared in a packet.

Michael Schwalbe. 2007. The Sociologically Examined Life: Pieces of the Conversation.

Otis Carney. 2002. Wars R’ Us: Taking Action for Peace.

Paulo Coelho. 1995. The Alchemist: A Fable About Following Your Dream   

Joseph Campbell. 2004. Pathways to Bliss: Mythological and Personal  Transformation                                   

Mitch Albon. Tuesday with Morrie.

 Grading Policy             

20%  Short essays / Journal entries

20% Group Workshops and class participation

10%  Written Critiques of student paper

10% Oral Presentation

10% Final assessment

30% Final course project

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% Three exams 60%Cass project and participation 8%Quiz 8 %

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% 

Three exams 60%

Class project and participation 8%

Quiz 8%

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

The Signature Course (UGS 302 and 303) introduces first-year students to the university’s academic community through the exploration of new interests. The Signature Course is your opportunity to engage in college-level thinking and learning.

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% 

Three exams 60%

Class project and participation 8%

Quiz 8%

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

“All the particles of the world are in love and looking for lovers.” --Rumi

 OBJECTIVES

Sociology 308 examines the social, psychological, spiritual, and historical perspectives toward love and intimacy. It focuses on the cross-cultural diversity of passionate love and sexuality from early civilization in the East and West to the modern era. The course will offer insights to understand how love and intimacy interact with rapid social, economic, and cultural change, and how the subsequent change transformed the social world and the meaning of love. As we journey through this course, you will become familiar with: the aspects of self and identity; differentiation in the context of love in the modern age; the family and the individual; the impact of industrialization and capitalism on private lives and the public order; gender, love, and communication; love, health, and socialization; intercultural love and intimacy; personal choice and arranged marriages. Finally, we will look at the current state of love and aggression in modern democracies.  This course brings some of the current research and thinking, not only from the social perspective, but also from a wide variety of intellectual disciplines. Artistic films, documentaries, and other media will be presented as technical methods of representation of "social reality" to better understand and experience the subject.

 Readings: Course Packet – a selection of articles has been prepared in a packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24thSt.)

*Assigned readings with asterisk below can be found on Blackboard: http://courses.utexas.edu          

Format and Attendance: This course will use a combination lecture-discussion style format, with more emphasis on discussion. Attendance will be taken on a regular basis. Regular attendance is required and I expect that students will come to all classes- both lectures and discussions. Please note that: the repercussion of being absent a total of 4 or more classes for the entire spring semester (without justifiable reason) is that your grade will automatically be lowered by one letter. Unexcused absences will count against your grade.

 Grades: Are assigned based on the standard scale: 93-100%= A; 90-92.9% = A-; 87-89.9% = B+; 83-86.9%=B; 80-82.9%= B-; 77-79.9% = C+; 73-76.9%= C; 70-72.9%=C-; 67-69.9% = D+; 63-66.9= D; 60-62.9%= D-; <60 = F.  There are no grading curves.

1) A research paper (4 – 5 pages) OR group paper (10 – 15 pages) on the subject of love, intimacy, relationships, or related issues. Course project and presentations constitute 25% of the final grade. The project is central to the course and the topic must be chosen by the student and/or the group and approved by the teaching assistant and the instructor.

2) Two exams 50% (each exam counts 25%)

3) Quizzes 9%

4) Class participation/group discussions 16%

Description

This course will introduce the students to different aspects of creative insights, human consciousness, social processes, and the ‘invention of reality’.  The class will bring the intellectual abilities and intuitive inclinations together as a complementary process. We’ll pursue and encourage elements of mindfulness, intuition, and creativity at the individual, organizational, societal, and environmental levels.  The course will draw upon a wide range of sources- lectures, group discussions, books, articles, artistic films, documentaries–in order to better understand and appreciate the interconnectedness and interrelationship between ‘inner’ (personal) and the other (‘social’) reality. The media will be presented as technical methods of representation of "social reality" and socio-cultural phenomena. No technical aspects will be emphasized.

Required Texts

A selection of articles will be, prepared in a packet.

Michael Schwalbe. 2007. The Sociologically Examined Life: Pieces of the Conversation.

Otis Carney. 2002. Wars R’ Us: Taking Action for Peace.

Paulo Coelho. 1995. The Alchemist: A Fable About Following Your Dream   

Joseph Campbell. 2004. Pathways to Bliss: Mythological and Personal  Transformation                                   

Mitch Albon. Tuesday with Morrie.

 Grading Policy             

20%  Short essays / Journal entries

20% Group Workshops and class participation

10%  Written Critiques of student paper

10% Oral Presentation

10% Final assessment

30% Final course project

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% Three exams 60%Cass project and participation 8%Quiz 8 %

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% 

Three exams 60%

Class project and participation 8%

Quiz 8%

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

The Signature Course (UGS 302 and 303) introduces first-year students to the university’s academic community through the exploration of new interests. The Signature Course is your opportunity to engage in college-level thinking and learning.

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% 

Three exams 60%

Class project and participation 8%

Quiz 8%

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% Three exams 60%Cass project and participation 8%Quiz 8 %

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

“All the particles of the world are in love and looking for lovers.” --Rumi

 OBJECTIVES

Sociology 308 examines the social, psychological, spiritual, and historical perspectives toward love and intimacy. It focuses on the cross-cultural diversity of passionate love and sexuality from early civilization in the East and West to the modern era. The course will offer insights to understand how love and intimacy interact with rapid social, economic, and cultural change, and how the subsequent change transformed the social world and the meaning of love. As we journey through this course, you will become familiar with: the aspects of self and identity; differentiation in the context of love in the modern age; the family and the individual; the impact of industrialization and capitalism on private lives and the public order; gender, love, and communication; love, health, and socialization; intercultural love and intimacy; personal choice and arranged marriages. Finally, we will look at the current state of love and aggression in modern democracies.  This course brings some of the current research and thinking, not only from the social perspective, but also from a wide variety of intellectual disciplines. Artistic films, documentaries, and other media will be presented as technical methods of representation of "social reality" to better understand and experience the subject.

 Readings: Course Packet – a selection of articles has been prepared in a packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24thSt.)

*Assigned readings with asterisk below can be found on Blackboard: http://courses.utexas.edu          

Format and Attendance: This course will use a combination lecture-discussion style format, with more emphasis on discussion. Attendance will be taken on a regular basis. Regular attendance is required and I expect that students will come to all classes- both lectures and discussions. Please note that: the repercussion of being absent a total of 4 or more classes for the entire spring semester (without justifiable reason) is that your grade will automatically be lowered by one letter. Unexcused absences will count against your grade.

 Grades: Are assigned based on the standard scale: 93-100%= A; 90-92.9% = A-; 87-89.9% = B+; 83-86.9%=B; 80-82.9%= B-; 77-79.9% = C+; 73-76.9%= C; 70-72.9%=C-; 67-69.9% = D+; 63-66.9= D; 60-62.9%= D-; <60 = F.  There are no grading curves.

1) A research paper (4 – 5 pages) OR group paper (10 – 15 pages) on the subject of love, intimacy, relationships, or related issues. Course project and presentations constitute 25% of the final grade. The project is central to the course and the topic must be chosen by the student and/or the group and approved by the teaching assistant and the instructor.

2) Two exams 50% (each exam counts 25%)

3) Quizzes 9%

4) Class participation/group discussions 16%

Description

This course will introduce the students to different aspects of creative insights, human consciousness, social processes, and the ‘invention of reality’.  The class will bring the intellectual abilities and intuitive inclinations together as a complementary process. We’ll pursue and encourage elements of mindfulness, intuition, and creativity at the individual, organizational, societal, and environmental levels.  The course will draw upon a wide range of sources- lectures, group discussions, books, articles, artistic films, documentaries–in order to better understand and appreciate the interconnectedness and interrelationship between ‘inner’ (personal) and the other (‘social’) reality. The media will be presented as technical methods of representation of "social reality" and socio-cultural phenomena. No technical aspects will be emphasized.

Required Texts

A selection of articles will be, prepared in a packet.

Michael Schwalbe. 2007. The Sociologically Examined Life: Pieces of the Conversation.

Otis Carney. 2002. Wars R’ Us: Taking Action for Peace.

Paulo Coelho. 1995. The Alchemist: A Fable About Following Your Dream   

Joseph Campbell. 2004. Pathways to Bliss: Mythological and Personal  Transformation                                   

Mitch Albon. Tuesday with Morrie.

 Grading Policy             

20%  Short essays / Journal entries

20% Group Workshops and class participation

10%  Written Critiques of student paper

10% Oral Presentation

10% Final assessment

30% Final course project

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% Three exams 60%Cass project and participation 8%Quiz 8 %

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% Three exams 60%Cass project and participation 8%Quiz 8 %

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

The Signature Course (UGS 302 and 303) introduces first-year students to the university’s academic community through the exploration of new interests. The Signature Course is your opportunity to engage in college-level thinking and learning.

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% Three exams 60%Cass project and participation 8%Quiz 8 %

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

“All the particles of the world are in love and looking for lovers.” --Rumi

 OBJECTIVES

Sociology 308 examines the social, psychological, spiritual, and historical perspectives toward love and intimacy. It focuses on the cross-cultural diversity of passionate love and sexuality from early civilization in the East and West to the modern era. The course will offer insights to understand how love and intimacy interact with rapid social, economic, and cultural change, and how the subsequent change transformed the social world and the meaning of love. As we journey through this course, you will become familiar with: the aspects of self and identity; differentiation in the context of love in the modern age; the family and the individual; the impact of industrialization and capitalism on private lives and the public order; gender, love, and communication; love, health, and socialization; intercultural love and intimacy; personal choice and arranged marriages. Finally, we will look at the current state of love and aggression in modern democracies.  This course brings some of the current research and thinking, not only from the social perspective, but also from a wide variety of intellectual disciplines. Artistic films, documentaries, and other media will be presented as technical methods of representation of "social reality" to better understand and experience the subject.

 Readings: Course Packet – a selection of articles has been prepared in a packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24thSt.)

*Assigned readings with asterisk below can be found on Blackboard: http://courses.utexas.edu          

Format and Attendance: This course will use a combination lecture-discussion style format, with more emphasis on discussion. Attendance will be taken on a regular basis. Regular attendance is required and I expect that students will come to all classes- both lectures and discussions. Please note that: the repercussion of being absent a total of 4 or more classes for the entire spring semester (without justifiable reason) is that your grade will automatically be lowered by one letter. Unexcused absences will count against your grade.

 Grades: Are assigned based on the standard scale: 93-100%= A; 90-92.9% = A-; 87-89.9% = B+; 83-86.9%=B; 80-82.9%= B-; 77-79.9% = C+; 73-76.9%= C; 70-72.9%=C-; 67-69.9% = D+; 63-66.9= D; 60-62.9%= D-; <60 = F.  There are no grading curves.

1) A research paper (4 – 5 pages) OR group paper (10 – 15 pages) on the subject of love, intimacy, relationships, or related issues. Course project and presentations constitute 25% of the final grade. The project is central to the course and the topic must be chosen by the student and/or the group and approved by the teaching assistant and the instructor.

2) Two exams 50% (each exam counts 25%)

3) Quizzes 9%

4) Class participation/group discussions 16%

Description

This course will introduce the students to different aspects of creative insights, human consciousness, social processes, and the ‘invention of reality’.  The class will bring the intellectual abilities and intuitive inclinations together as a complementary process. We’ll pursue and encourage elements of mindfulness, intuition, and creativity at the individual, organizational, societal, and environmental levels.  The course will draw upon a wide range of sources- lectures, group discussions, books, articles, artistic films, documentaries–in order to better understand and appreciate the interconnectedness and interrelationship between ‘inner’ (personal) and the other (‘social’) reality. The media will be presented as technical methods of representation of "social reality" and socio-cultural phenomena. No technical aspects will be emphasized.

Required Texts

A selection of articles will be, prepared in a packet.

Michael Schwalbe. 2007. The Sociologically Examined Life: Pieces of the Conversation.

Otis Carney. 2002. Wars R’ Us: Taking Action for Peace.

Paulo Coelho. 1995. The Alchemist: A Fable About Following Your Dream   

Joseph Campbell. 2004. Pathways to Bliss: Mythological and Personal  Transformation                                   

Mitch Albon. Tuesday with Morrie.

 Grading Policy             

20%  Short essays--three pages every three weeks

20% Group Workshops and class participation--two--three pages a week

10%  Written Critiques of student paper--three pages

10% Oral Presentation

10% Final assessment--five to seven pages

30% Final course project--6 to 7 pages

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% Three exams 60%Cass project and participation 8%Quiz 8 %

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

Description

Sociology 302 will offer insights to understand how social forces in society shape our behavior and influence our being. After all, we are the product of our society and vice versa. Our identity, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, you will become familiar with the nature of sociology, macro-micro perspectives, sociological approaches, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, social interaction, self and society, institutions, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, we explore the sociology of health and the mind-body connection. In this course, we will: a) create an environment that encourages active participation and discussion in the learning process; b) Use a variety of techniques in the teaching and learning process, and c) we will assess and evaluate your work and give timely feedback.

Grading Policy

A short project paper (4-5 pages) 20% 

Three exams 20% each

Class participation and group projects 10%

Pop quizzes 10%

Class Attendance: Regular attendance is required. The repercussion of being absent a total of 4 or more classes, without justifiable reason, is that the final grade will automatically be lowered by one letter.

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach, 2007, (seventh or eight editions)

Reading Packet: in addition to your general sociology text, you are provided with more readings on certain topics for in-depth analysis and discussion. These readings are photocopied articles available as a packet under my name at: Paradigm (407 W. 24th St)

The Signature Course (UGS 302 and 303) introduces first-year students to the university’s academic community through the exploration of new interests. The Signature Course is your opportunity to engage in college-level thinking and learning.

Description

Sociology 302 will offer insights to understand how social forces in society shape our behavior and influence our being. After all, we are the product of our society and vice versa. Our identity, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, you will become familiar with the nature of sociology, macro-micro perspectives, sociological approaches, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, social interaction, self and society, institutions, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, we explore the sociology of health and the mind-body connection. In this course, we will: a) create an environment that encourages active participation and discussion in the learning process; b) Use a variety of techniques in the teaching and learning process, and c) we will assess and evaluate your work and give timely feedback.

Grading Policy

A short project paper (4-5 pages) 20% 

Three exams 20% each

Class participation and group projects 10%

Pop quizzes 10%

Class Attendance: Regular attendance is required. The repercussion of being absent a total of 4 or more classes, without justifiable reason, is that the final grade will automatically be lowered by one letter.

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach, 2007, (seventh or eight editions)

Reading Packet: in addition to your general sociology text, you are provided with more readings on certain topics for in-depth analysis and discussion. These readings are photocopied articles available as a packet under my name at: Paradigm (407 W. 24th St)

“All the particles of the world are in love and looking for lovers.” --Rumi

 OBJECTIVES

Sociology 308 examines the social, psychological, spiritual, and historical perspectives toward love and intimacy. It focuses on the cross-cultural diversity of passionate love and sexuality from early civilization in the East and West to the modern era. The course will offer insights to understand how love and intimacy interact with rapid social, economic, and cultural change, and how the subsequent change transformed the social world and the meaning of love. As we journey through this course, you will become familiar with: the aspects of self and identity; differentiation in the context of love in the modern age; the family and the individual; the impact of industrialization and capitalism on private lives and the public order; gender, love, and communication; love, health, and socialization; intercultural love and intimacy; personal choice and arranged marriages. Finally, we will look at the current state of love and aggression in modern democracies.  This course brings some of the current research and thinking, not only from the social perspective, but also from a wide variety of intellectual disciplines. Artistic films, documentaries, and other media will be presented as technical methods of representation of "social reality" to better understand and experience the subject.

 Readings: Course Packet – a selection of articles has been prepared in a packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24thSt.)

*Assigned readings with asterisk below can be found on Blackboard: http://courses.utexas.edu          

Format and Attendance: This course will use a combination lecture-discussion style format, with more emphasis on discussion. Attendance will be taken on a regular basis. Regular attendance is required and I expect that students will come to all classes- both lectures and discussions. Please note that: the repercussion of being absent a total of 4 or more classes for the entire spring semester (without justifiable reason) is that your grade will automatically be lowered by one letter. Unexcused absences will count against your grade.

 Grades: Are assigned based on the standard scale: 93-100%= A; 90-92.9% = A-; 87-89.9% = B+; 83-86.9%=B; 80-82.9%= B-; 77-79.9% = C+; 73-76.9%= C; 70-72.9%=C-; 67-69.9% = D+; 63-66.9= D; 60-62.9%= D-; <60 = F.  There are no grading curves.

1) A research paper (4 – 5 pages) OR group paper (10 – 15 pages) on the subject of love, intimacy, relationships, or related issues. Course project and presentations constitute 25% of the final grade. The project is central to the course and the topic must be chosen by the student and/or the group and approved by the teaching assistant and the instructor.

2) Two exams 50% (each exam counts 25%)

3) Quizzes 9%

4) Class participation/group discussions 16%

Description

This course will introduce the students to different aspects of creative insights, human consciousness, social processes, and the ‘invention of reality’.  The class will bring the intellectual abilities and intuitive inclinations together as a complementary process. We’ll pursue and encourage elements of mindfulness, intuition, and creativity at the individual, organizational, societal, and environmental levels.  The course will draw upon a wide range of sources- lectures, group discussions, books, articles, artistic films, documentaries–in order to better understand and appreciate the interconnectedness and interrelationship between ‘inner’ (personal) and the other (‘social’) reality. The media will be presented as technical methods of representation of "social reality" and socio-cultural phenomena. No technical aspects will be emphasized.

Required Texts

A selection of articles will be, prepared in a packet.

Michael Schwalbe. 2007. The Sociologically Examined Life: Pieces of the Conversation.

Otis Carney. 2002. Wars R’ Us: Taking Action for Peace.

Paulo Coelho. 1995. The Alchemist: A Fable About Following Your Dream   

Joseph Campbell. 2004. Pathways to Bliss: Mythological and Personal  Transformation                                   

Mitch Albon. Tuesday with Morrie.

 Grading Policy             

20%  Short essays / Journal entries

20% Group Workshops and class participation

10%  Written Critiques of student paper

10% Oral Presentation

10% Final assessment

30% Final course project

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% Three exams 60%Cass project and participation 8%Quiz 8 %

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

Description

Sociology 302 will offer insights to understand how social forces in society shape our behavior and influence our being. After all, we are the product of our society and vice versa. Our identity, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, you will become familiar with the nature of sociology, macro-micro perspectives, sociological approaches, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, social interaction, self and society, institutions, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, we explore the sociology of health and the mind-body connection. In this course, we will: a) create an environment that encourages active participation and discussion in the learning process; b) Use a variety of techniques in the teaching and learning process, and c) we will assess and evaluate your work and give timely feedback.

Grading Policy

A short project paper (4-5 pages) 20% 

Three exams 20% each

Class participation and group projects 10%

Pop quizzes 10%

Class Attendance: Regular attendance is required. The repercussion of being absent a total of 4 or more classes, without justifiable reason, is that the final grade will automatically be lowered by one letter.

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach, 2007, (seventh or eight editions)

Reading Packet: in addition to your general sociology text, you are provided with more readings on certain topics for in-depth analysis and discussion. These readings are photocopied articles available as a packet under my name at: Paradigm (407 W. 24th St)

The Signature Course (UGS 302 and 303) introduces first-year students to the university’s academic community through the exploration of new interests. The Signature Course is your opportunity to engage in college-level thinking and learning.

Description

Sociology 302 will offer insights to understand how social forces in society shape our behavior and influence our being. After all, we are the product of our society and vice versa. Our identity, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, you will become familiar with the nature of sociology, macro-micro perspectives, sociological approaches, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, social interaction, self and society, institutions, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, we explore the sociology of health and the mind-body connection. In this course, we will: a) create an environment that encourages active participation and discussion in the learning process; b) Use a variety of techniques in the teaching and learning process, and c) we will assess and evaluate your work and give timely feedback.

Grading Policy

A short project paper (4-5 pages) 20% 

Three exams 20% each

Class participation and group projects 10%

Pop quizzes 10%

Class Attendance: Regular attendance is required. The repercussion of being absent a total of 4 or more classes, without justifiable reason, is that the final grade will automatically be lowered by one letter.

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach, 2007, (seventh or eight editions)

Reading Packet: in addition to your general sociology text, you are provided with more readings on certain topics for in-depth analysis and discussion. These readings are photocopied articles available as a packet under my name at: Paradigm (407 W. 24th St)

Description

Sociology 302 will offer insights to understand how social forces in society shape our behavior and influence our being. After all, we are the product of our society and vice versa. Our identity, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, you will become familiar with the nature of sociology, macro-micro perspectives, sociological approaches, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, social interaction, self and society, institutions, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, we explore the sociology of health and the mind-body connection. In this course, we will: a) create an environment that encourages active participation and discussion in the learning process; b) Use a variety of techniques in the teaching and learning process, and c) we will assess and evaluate your work and give timely feedback.

Grading Policy

A short project paper (4-5 pages) 20% Three exams 20% eachClass participation and group projects 10%Pop quizzes 10%Class Attendance: Regular attendance is required. The repercussion of being absent a total of 4 or more classes, without justifiable reason, is that the final grade will automatically be lowered by one letter.

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach, 2007, (seventh or eight editions)Reading Packet: in addition to your general sociology text, you are provided with more readings on certain topics for in-depth analysis and discussion. These readings are photocopied articles available as a packet under my name at: Paradigm (407 W. 24th St)

“All the particles of the world are in love and looking for lovers.” --Rumi

 OBJECTIVES

Sociology 308 examines the social, psychological, spiritual, and historical perspectives toward love and intimacy. It focuses on the cross-cultural diversity of passionate love and sexuality from early civilization in the East and West to the modern era. The course will offer insights to understand how love and intimacy interact with rapid social, economic, and cultural change, and how the subsequent change transformed the social world and the meaning of love. As we journey through this course, you will become familiar with: the aspects of self and identity; differentiation in the context of love in the modern age; the family and the individual; the impact of industrialization and capitalism on private lives and the public order; gender, love, and communication; love, health, and socialization; intercultural love and intimacy; personal choice and arranged marriages. Finally, we will look at the current state of love and aggression in modern democracies.  This course brings some of the current research and thinking, not only from the social perspective, but also from a wide variety of intellectual disciplines. Artistic films, documentaries, and other media will be presented as technical methods of representation of "social reality" to better understand and experience the subject.

 Readings: Course Packet – a selection of articles has been prepared in a packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24thSt.)

*Assigned readings with asterisk below can be found on Blackboard: http://courses.utexas.edu          

Format and Attendance: This course will use a combination lecture-discussion style format, with more emphasis on discussion. Attendance will be taken on a regular basis. Regular attendance is required and I expect that students will come to all classes- both lectures and discussions. Please note that: the repercussion of being absent a total of 4 or more classes for the entire spring semester (without justifiable reason) is that your grade will automatically be lowered by one letter. Unexcused absences will count against your grade.

 Grades: Are assigned based on the standard scale: 93-100%= A; 90-92.9% = A-; 87-89.9% = B+; 83-86.9%=B; 80-82.9%= B-; 77-79.9% = C+; 73-76.9%= C; 70-72.9%=C-; 67-69.9% = D+; 63-66.9= D; 60-62.9%= D-; <60 = F.  There are no grading curves.

1) A research paper (4 – 5 pages) OR group paper (10 – 15 pages) on the subject of love, intimacy, relationships, or related issues. Course project and presentations constitute 25% of the final grade. The project is central to the course and the topic must be chosen by the student and/or the group and approved by the teaching assistant and the instructor.

2) Two exams 50% (each exam counts 25%)

3) Quizzes 9%

4) Class participation/group discussions 16%

Description

This course will introduce the students to different aspects of creative insights, human consciousness, social processes, and the ‘invention of reality’.  The class will bring the intellectual abilities and intuitive inclinations together as a complementary process. We’ll pursue and encourage elements of mindfulness, intuition, and creativity at the individual, organizational, societal, and environmental levels.  The course will draw upon a wide range of sources- lectures, group discussions, books, articles, artistic films, documentaries–in order to better understand and appreciate the interconnectedness and interrelationship between ‘inner’ (personal) and the other (‘social’) reality. The media will be presented as technical methods of representation of "social reality" and socio-cultural phenomena. No technical aspects will be emphasized.

Required Texts

A selection of articles will be, prepared in a packet.

Michael Schwalbe. 2007. The Sociologically Examined Life: Pieces of the Conversation.

Otis Carney. 2002. Wars R’ Us: Taking Action for Peace.

Paulo Coelho. 1995. The Alchemist: A Fable About Following Your Dream   

Joseph Campbell. 2004. Pathways to Bliss: Mythological and Personal  Transformation                                   

Mitch Albon. Tuesday with Morrie.

 Grading Policy             

1. 20% - Short essays / Journal entries
2. 20% –Group Workshops and class participation
3. 10%- Written Critiques of student paper
4. 10%-- Oral Presentation
5. 10%-- Final assessment
6. 30%--- Final course project

Description

Sociology 302 will offer insights to understand how social forces in society shape our behavior and influence our being. After all, we are the product of our society and vice versa. Our identity, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, you will become familiar with the nature of sociology, macro-micro perspectives, sociological approaches, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, social interaction, self and society, institutions, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, we explore the sociology of health and the mind-body connection. In this course, we will: a) create an environment that encourages active participation and discussion in the learning process; b) Use a variety of techniques in the teaching and learning process, and c) we will assess and evaluate your work and give timely feedback.

Grading Policy

A short project paper (4-5 pages) 20% Three exams 20% eachClass participation and group projects 10%Pop quizzes 10%Class Attendance: Regular attendance is required. The repercussion of being absent a total of 4 or more classes, without justifiable reason, is that the final grade will automatically be lowered by one letter.

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach, 2007, (seventh or eight editions)Reading Packet: in addition to your general sociology text, you are provided with more readings on certain topics for in-depth analysis and discussion. These readings are photocopied articles available as a packet under my name at: Paradigm (407 W. 24th St)

The Signature Course (UGS 302 and 303) introduces first-year students to the university’s academic community through the exploration of new interests. The Signature Course is your opportunity to engage in college-level thinking and learning.

Description:

This course will offer insights to understand how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are the product of our society and vice versa. Our identity, hopes, fears, grieves and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, you will become familiar with the nature of sociology, sociological approaches, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, social interaction, institutions, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, we explore the sociology of health and the mind-body connection.

Required Text:

James M. Henslin. 2010. Sociology:  A Down to Earth Approach (eight or ninth editions). Reading packet.

Grading Policy:

3 exams       65%

Group discussions/participation    20%

Quiz       15%

Regular attendance is required

Course Description

This course will closely examine how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are all the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. As we journey through the course, students will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, the course will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Grading Policy

Research paper 24% 
Three exams 60%
Cass project and participation 8%
Quiz 8 %

Texts

James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach (eighth or ninth edition), 2008
Reading packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24th St.)

Description

Sociology 302 will offer insights to understand how social forces in society shape our behavior and influence our being. After all, we are the product of our society and vice versa. Our identity, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, you will become familiar with the nature of sociology, macro-micro perspectives, sociological approaches, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, social interaction, self and society, institutions, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, we explore the sociology of health and the mind-body connection. In this course, we will: a) create an environment that encourages active participation and discussion in the learning process; b) Use a variety of techniques in the teaching and learning process, and c) we will assess and evaluate your work and give timely feedback.

Grading Policy
A short project paper (4-5 pages) 20% 
Three exams 20% each
Class participation and group projects 10%
Pop quizzes 10%

Class Attendance: Regular attendance is required. The repercussion of being absent a total of 4 or more classes, without justifiable reason, is that the final grade will automatically be lowered by one letter.

Texts
James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach, 2007, (seventh or eight editions)
Reading Packet: in addition to your general sociology text, you are provided with more readings on certain topics for in-depth analysis and discussion. These readings are photocopied articles available as a packet under my name at: Paradigm (407 W. 24th St)

“All the particles of the world are in love and looking for lovers.” --Rumi

OBJECTIVES

Sociology 308 examines the social, psychological, spiritual, and historical perspectives toward love and intimacy. It focuses on the cross-cultural diversity of passionate love and sexuality from early civilization in the East and West to the modern era. The course will offer insights to understand how love and intimacy interact with rapid social, economic, and cultural change, and how the subsequent change transformed the social world and the meaning of love. As we journey through this course, you will become familiar with: the aspects of self and identity; differentiation in the context of love in the modern age; the family and the individual; the impact of industrialization and capitalism on private lives and the public order; gender, love, and communication; love, health, and socialization; intercultural love and intimacy; personal choice and arranged marriages. Finally, we will look at the current state of love and aggression in modern democracies.  This course brings some of the current research and thinking, not only from the social perspective, but also from a wide variety of intellectual disciplines. Artistic films, documentaries, and other media will be presented as technical methods of representation of "social reality" to better understand and experience the subject.

Readings: Course Packet – a selection of articles has been prepared in a packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24^thSt.)

*Assigned readings with asterisk below can be found on Blackboard: http://courses.utexas.edu

Format and Attendance: This course will use a combination lecture-discussion style format, with more emphasis on discussion. Attendance will be taken on a regular basis. Regular attendance is required and I expect that students will come to all classes- both lectures and discussions. Please note that: the repercussion of being absent a total of 4 or more classes for the entire spring semester (without justifiable reason) is that your grade will automatically be lowered by one letter. Unexcused absences will count against your grade.

 Grades: Are assigned based on the standard scale: 93-100%= A; 90-92.9% = A-; 87-89.9% = B+; 83-86.9%=B; 80-82.9%= B-; 77-79.9% = C+; 73-76.9%= C; 70-72.9%=C-; 67-69.9% = D+; 63-66.9= D; 60-62.9%= D-; <60 = F.  There are no grading curves.

Restricted to Plan I Honors.

Meets with: LAH 350/29405; ANS 372/30775; HMN 350/39770

Description:

This course mainly examines the Indian epic of the Mahabharata in its social, cultural, spiritual, and political dimensions, as well as their implications for modern societies. The epic has been estimated to be seven to eight times as long as the Iliad and Odyssey combined. By applying multidisciplinary perspectives, we will analyze how personal, kinship, social, and political arrangements in the early part of the epic set the stage for later conflict, violence, and war. 

The course will also explore chapters from the Bhagavad-Gita to construct and conceptualize the nature of the non-dualistic perspective. Such a perspective will also address the science of knowledge and the path to human liberation in the midst of overwhelming tragedies and discord. The classic Gita is the epitome of Vedic teachings, compiled by the ancient seer Vyasa. The Gita, which appeared in the middle of Mahabharata, is the dynamic conversation between Krishna (the master) and Arjuna (the great hero) when the opposing armies were ready to attack each other. This part of the course will contribute to the theory of knowledge and the sociology of religion. 

Students will also be exposed to concepts and ideas such as: Self and society, matter and consciousness, epistemological and ontological reality, path of love and non-violence. 

The course finally covers the sociology of action in its many dimensions since action becomes the dynamic element in constructing reality at the personal and collective.

Texts:

Course packet. 

LAL, P. The Mahabharata of Vyasa: the condensed version from Sanskrit

C. Rahagopalachari (‘Rajaji’ or ‘C.R’.)-  Mahabharata 

Hawley, Jack. Bhagavad-Gita, A Walking Through for Westerners 

Bhagavad-Gita, The Song of God. Translated by Swami Prabhavananda and Christopher Isherwood, with an introd. by Aldous Huxley

Brunton, Paul. What is Karma?

Requirement:

Research paper 40%

Writing assignments (short papers) 40%

In-class assignments and participation 20%

Description:

Sociology 302 will offer insights to understand how social forces in society shape our behavior and influence our being. After all, we are the product of our society and vice versa. Our identity, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, you will become familiar with the nature of sociology, macro-micro perspectives, sociological approaches, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, social interaction, self and society, institutions, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, we explore the sociology of health and the mind-body connection. In this course, we will: a) create an environment that encourages active participation and discussion in the learning process; b) Use a variety of techniques in the teaching and learning process, and c) we will assess and evaluate your work and give timely feedback.

Grading Policy
A short project paper (4-5 pages) 20%
Three exams 20% each
Class participation and group projects 10%
Pop quizzes 10%

Class Attendance: Regular attendance is required. The repercussion of being absent a total of 4 or more classes, without justifiable reason, is that the final grade will automatically be lowered by one letter.

Texts
James M. Henslin, Sociology: A Down to Earth Approach,2007, (seventh or eight editions)
Reading Packet: in addition to your general sociology text, you are provided with more readings on certain topics for in-depth analysis and discussion. These readings are photocopied articles available as a packet under my name at: Paradigm (407 W. 24th St)

The Signature Course (UGS 302 and 303) introduces first-year students to the university’s academic community through the exploration of new interests. The Signature Course is your opportunity to engage in college-level thinking and learning.

        This course will offer insights to understand how social forces in society shape our behavior and penetrate our being. After all, we are the product of our society and vice versa. Our identity, hopes, fears, grieves and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups. In this class, you will become familiar with the nature of sociology, sociological approaches, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, social interaction, institutions, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, we explore the sociology of health and the mind-body connection.

Text Book: James M. Henslin. 2010. Sociology:  A Down to Earth Approach (eight or ninth editions).
Reading packet.

Evaluation:
3 exams    65%
Group discussions/participation    20%
Quiz    15%

Regular attendance is required

Please check back for updates.

Introduction to the Study of Society (SOC 302)

Spring 2010

Time and Place: MW 10:00-11:00, FAC 21 (Lecture)

F 10:00-11:00, BUR 128 (Discussion/Lab) (46150)
W 1:00-2:00, RLM 6.116 (Discussion/Lab) (46155)

TH 1:00-2:00, BUR 134 (Discussion/Lab)(46160)

F 1:00-2:00, WEL 3.402 (Discussion/Lab)(46165)

W 2:00-3:00, BEN 1.124 (Discussion/Lab)(46170)

TH 2:00-3:00, MEZ 1.102 (Discussion/Lab)(46175)

Instructor: Mehdi Haghshenas                        Colleagues: Ying-Ting Wang: ytwang@mail.utexas.edu

Office: Burdine 539                                    Office/office hours: Bur 602 / M: 2:00-4:00; T:3:00-4:00

Office hours: MW: 11:00-11:50                        Marcos Perez: marcosperez@mail.utexas.edu

Phone: 232-8064                                    Office/office hours: Bur 602/M: 1:30-2:30; Th10:00-12:00           

                                                            Branden Winn: bwinn@mail.utexas.edu

Office/office hours: Bur 554/M: 3:30-4:30; Th:11:00-1:00

  Objectives

 Sociology 302 will offer insights to understand how social forces in society shape our behavior and influence our being. After all, we are the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions can be derived from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups.  In this class, you will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination, mindfulness, and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. In this course, you will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, we will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection. In this course, we will: a) create an environment that encourages active participation, group interaction, and discussion in the learning process; b) actively encourage critical thinking; c) use different techniques in the teaching and learning process, and d) we will assess and evaluate your work and give timely feedback.

  Reading List:

Text Book: James M. Henslin. 2009. Sociology:  A Down to Earth Approach (Eight or ninth edition).

Reading Packet:  in addition to your general sociology text, you are provided with more readings on certain topics for in-depth analysis and discussion. These readings are photocopied articles available as a packet under my name at: Paradigm (407 W. 24^th St.)

*Assigned readings with asterisk below can be found on Blackboard (BB): http://courses.utexas.edu

  Format and Evaluation:

This course will use a combination lecture-discussion style format. Regular attendance is required and I expect that students will come to all classes- both lectures and discussions. Please note that: the repercussion of being absent a total of 4 or more classes for the entire spring semester (without justifiable reason) is that your grade will automatically be lowered by one letter. Unexcused absences will count against your grade.

Participants' performance in the course will be based on (a) three one hour examinations (each exams counts 20%); (b) one short project paper of 3-4 pages (20%); (c) Pop quizzes (6%); class participation and group discussions (12%); individual assignments (2%). Taken together, the exams will amount 60% of the course grade. They will include multiple choice, and short answer questions. The tests are reviews of material covered in the class, group discussions, films, and readings. Exams will be taken in class. NO MAKE- UP QUIZ.

MAKE UP EXAMS: Will not be given without prior notice and a written excuse from a physician or other verified emergency situation. Failure to take a scheduled examination without making prior arrangements will result in an automatic zero for that exam.

Your paper may be a collaborative effort of 2 or 3 students. The topic must be chosen by the students and approved by the instructor and the TAs. The paper is to be typed only with 12 pt. Times or Courier font, 1.5 line spacing format, 1 to 1.25 inch margins, and numbered pages.   More content and formatting guidelines will be provided closer to the due date. Papers should be submitted in-person. Email submissions will not be permitted with the exception of prior approval. Late papers will not be accepted.  If a paper is not turned in by the assigned date, the grade will automatically be an F. Please keep copies of your assignments you turn in and keep track of your grades until the end of the semester. Group discussion projects and other assignments are due during the class period marked on the schedule.

Quizzes and Exercises will be given occasionally as the measures of class attendance, discussion and participation. We will use them to get input and participation from all class members. Therefore,

** ASSIGNED READINGS SHOULD BE COMPLETED BY THE DATES INDICATED.

IF YOU CANNOT REGULARLY MAKE IT TO THIS CLASS, OR CANNOT READ THE TEXTS FOR THE DATES THAT ARE ASSIGNED, PLEASE DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS.

  ** No emailed assignments or papers will be accepted without prior arrangement having been made with the TA.

** Classroom civility: With all respect, please turn off your cell phones and do not read/eat/wearing earphones/and work on your other class assignments while in class.

  TEST DATES:

  Test 1:  M, March 1

  Test 2:  W, April 7

  Test 3:  W, May 5

  PAPER DUE DATE:  March 24 

Grades: Are assigned based on the standard scale: 93-100%= A; 90-92.9% = A-; 87-89.9% = B+; 83-86.9%=B; 80-82.9%= B-; 77-79.9% = C+; 73-76.9%= C; 70-72.9%=C-; 67-69.9% = D+; 63-66.9= D; 60-62.9%= D-; <60 = F.  There are no grading curves.

Withdrawals:  As we journey into this course, if you are unsure of your status (especially if your grades are below average), please let us assist you to clarify your position. With all respect, if you decide to withdraw, do not miss the enforced deadline.

Accommodations: Students with disabilities who need special accommodations should notify us by presenting a letter prepared by the Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) Office. For more information, please call 471-6259(voice) or 232-2937 (video phone). http://www.utexas.edu/diversity/ddce/ssd/

Academic Integrity: During the coursework, you should maintain a high standard of individual honor in your scholastic work. Students who violate University rules on scholastic dishonesty are subject to disciplinary penalties, including the possibility of failure in the course and / or dismissal from the University. Cheating or plagiarism (including signing others’ names on attendance sheets) will not be tolerated.

Religious Holy Days: If you miss the class for the observance of a religious holy day, please inform the instructor and your TA as far in advance.

Course outline

  Please pay attention to the course schedule and complete reading assignments before coming to class.    

1/20    Introduction to Course

1/25

Topic:  Taking a New Look at the Familiar World: The Insights of Sociology

Readings:

1.  Peter Berger, "Invitation to Sociology"

2.  C. Wright Mills, "The Sociological Imagination"

3.  Michael Schwalbe, Selections from “The Sociologically Examined Life” * Chapter One: "Making Sense of the World Differently”.

1/27; 2/1-8

Topic:  The Classical Tradition and Sociological Perspectives (Group Discussion 1)

Readings:

1.  Chapter 1, James Henslin, "The sociological perspective"

2.  Emile Durkheim, “ What Make Sociology Different?” From The Rules of Sociological Method

3.  Emile Durkheim, "Egoistic suicide"

4.  Karl Marx, "The working of social class"

5.  Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, “The Communist Manifesto”

6.  Karl Marx, "Alienation in work"

7.  Max Weber, “the Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism”

2/10, 15, 17 (Group Discussion 2)

Topic:  Culture

Readings:

1.  Chapter 2;  James Henslin, "Culture"

2.  E.W. Fernea and R. Fernea, "A look behind the veil"

3.  Fatema Mernissi, “The Western Woman’s Harem”

4.  Horace Miner, "Body ritual among the Nacirema,"

5.  Edward T. Hall & M.R. Hall, "The sounds of silence”

6.  Marvin Harris, "India's sacred cow"

7.  Robert Levine, “A Geography of Time”

8.  E. Richard Sorenson, “Growing up as a Fore is to be in touch and free”

2/22, 24 (Exam Review)

Topic:  Social Construction of Reality, Building Identity, and Socialization

Readings:

1.  Chapter 3, James Henslin, "Socialization"

2.  Robert B. Moore, “Racism in the English Language”

3.  George H. Mead, “The Self as Social Structure,"    

4.  Patricia A. Adler & Peter Adler, “the Glorified Self.”

5.  Henry A. Giroux, “Disney, Casino Capitalism and the Exploitation of Young Boys: Beyond the Politics of Innocence”. *

March 1

FIRST EXAM

3/3, 8 (Group Discussion 3)

Topic:  Social Structure, Social Interaction, and Presentation of Self

Readings:

1. Chapter 4, J. Henslin

2. Philip Meyer, "If Hitler asked you to electrocute a stranger, would you?                                    Probably"

3. Herbert Kelman and V. Lee Hamilton, “The My Lai Massacre: A Military Crime of Obedience”

4. Ervin Goffman, “The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life: Selection”

5. Eugenia Kaw, “ ‘Opening’ Faces: The politics of Cosmetic Surgery and Asian American       Women”

6. Sharlene Hesse-Biber, “Becoming a Certain Body”

3/10 Paper discussion

March 15-19     Spring Break

March 24---Paper Due

3/ 22, 24 (PAPER DUE)

Topic:  Organizations, Bureaucracy, and Work

Readings:

1. Chapters 7 and 14, J. Henslin
2. Max Weber, "Bureaucracy and Modern Society,"
3. Max Weber, “The Disenchantment of Modern Life”
4. Juliet B. Schor, “The Overworked American”
5. George Ritzer, "The McDonald's System”
6. John Van Maanen, “The Smile Factory: Work at Disneyland”

3/ 29 / 31; APR 2(Exam Review)

Topic:  Social Stratification (The Global Perspective), Power, Class, and Privileged

Readings:

1.  Chapters 9 and 10, J. Henslin

1. Herbert Gans, “The Uses of Povery: The Poor Pay All”
2. Jonathan Kozol, “Savage Inequality”
3. G. William Domhoff, “The Bohemian Grove”
4. Gregory Mantsios, “Media Magic: Making Class Invisible”
5. John Isbister, “The foundations of Third World Poverty”
6. William Greider, “These Dark Satanic Mills”

4/ 5 (Exam Review)

April  7   Second Exam

4/ 12, 14 (Group Discussion 4)

Topic:  Social Inequality  (Continued); Gender Inequality and Work Force

Readings:

1. Chapter 11, J. Henslin
2. Arlie Hochschild & Anne Machung, "Men who share the second shift"
3. Ruth Sidel, “Mixed Messages”
4. Barrie Thorne, “Boys and Girls Together But Mostly Apart”
5. Allan Johnson, “Unraveling the Gender Knot”

4/19, 21

Topic:  Institutions:  Sociology of Love/ Marriage, Family, and Divorce

 Readings:

1.Chapter 16, J. Henslin

1. Giri R. Gupta, "Love, arranged marriage, and the Indian social structure"
2. N. Glenn, “Summery of National Survey On Marriage in America”
3.  Frank Furstenberg, “The future of Marriage”
4. Karla Hackstaff, “Divorce culture: a quest for relational equality in marriage”
5. S. Coontz, “Where are the good old days”
6. Arlene and Jerome Skolnick, “Family in Transition”
7. Fred M. Hechinger, "Why France outstrips the United States in nurturing its children"

4/26, 28

Topic: The Sociology of the Body: Mind-body connection

Chapter 19, J. Henslin

1.  John H. Evans “A Brave New World? How Genetic Technology Could Change Us

2.  Keith J. Karren et al, “ Pshchoneuronimmunology: The Connection Between the Mind and the Body”*  On BB

3.  Keith J. Karren et al, “Social Support, Relationships, and Health”* On BB

4.  David A. Karp, “Depression, disconnection, and the Meanings of Illness”

5/ 3 Exam Review—5/6 Third Exam

May 7 wrap up

Social Transformation of Love and Relationships

SOC. 308 Unique # 46270; MES 310 Unique # 42165

Time and Place: MWF 12:00-1:00 Location: GEA 114

Spring 2010

Instructor: Mehdi Haghshenas                       

Office Hours: MW 11:00 – 11:50 & by appt. (Burdine 539)

Phone: 232-8064

Colleague: Sharon Avital                       

Office and Office Hours:W:2:00-4:00 ( BUR 554)

Email: avitalsharon.shineon@gmail.com

“All the particles of the world are in love and looking for lovers.” --Rumi

OBJECTIVES

Sociology 308 examines the social, psychological, spiritual, and historical perspectives toward love and intimacy. It focuses on the cross-cultural diversity of passionate love and sexuality from early civilization in the East and West to the modern era. The course will offer insights to understand how love and intimacy interact with rapid social, economic, and cultural change, and how the subsequent change transformed the social world and the meaning of love. As we journey through this course, you will become familiar with: the aspects of self and identity; differentiation in the context of love in the modern age; the family and the individual; the impact of industrialization and capitalism on private lives and the public order; gender, love, and communication; love, health, and socialization; intercultural love and intimacy; personal choice and arranged marriages. Finally, we will look at the current state of love and aggression in modern democracies.  This course brings some of the current research and thinking, not only from the social perspective, but also from a wide variety of intellectual disciplines. Artistic films, documentaries, and other media will be presented as technical methods of representation of "social reality" to better understand and experience the subject.

Readings: Course Packet – a selection of articles has been prepared in a packet available at Paradigm (407 W. 24^th St.)

*Assigned readings with asterisk below can be found on Blackboard: http://courses.utexas.edu

Format and Attendance: This course will use a combination lecture-discussion style format, with more emphasis on discussion. Attendance will be taken on a regular basis. Regular attendance is required and I expect that students will come to all classes- both lectures and discussions. Please note that: the repercussion of being absent a total of 4 or more classes for the entire spring semester (without justifiable reason) is that your grade will automatically be lowered by one letter. Unexcused absences will count against your grade.

Grades: Are assigned based on the standard scale: 93-100%= A; 90-92.9% = A-; 87-89.9% = B+; 83-86.9%=B; 80-82.9%= B-; 77-79.9% = C+; 73-76.9%= C; 70-72.9%=C-; 67-69.9% = D+; 63-66.9= D; 60-62.9%= D-; <60 = F.  There are no grading curves.

Withdrawals:  As we journey into this course, if you are unsure of your status (especially if your grades are below average), please let us assist you to clarify your position. With all respect, if you decide to withdraw, do not miss the enforced deadline.

Accommodations: Students with disabilities who need special accommodations should notify us within the first two weeks of class by presenting a letter prepared by the Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) Office. For more information, please call 471-6259(voice) or 232-2937 (video phone). http://www.utexas.edu/diversity/ddce/ssd/

Academic Integrity: During the coursework, you should maintain a high standard of individual honor in your scholastic work. Students who violate University rules on scholastic dishonesty are subject to disciplinary penalties, including the possibility of failure in the course and / or dismissal from the University.

Religious Holy Days: If you miss the class for the observance of a religious holy day, please inform the instructor and your TA as far in advance.

ASSIGNED READINGS: SHOULD BE COMPLETED BY THE DATES INDICATED. IF YOU CANNOT REGULARLY MAKE IT TO THIS CLASS, OR CANNOT READ THE ARTICLES FOR THE DATES THAT ARE ASSIGNED, DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS.

MAKE UP EXAMS: Will not be given without prior notice and a written excuse from a physician or other verified emergency situation. Failure to take a scheduled examination without making prior arrangements will result in an automatic zero for that exam.

PAPER & PRESENTATION: The paper is to be typed only with 12 pt. Times or Courier font, 1.5 line spacing format, 1 to 1.25 inch margins, and numbered pages.   More content and formatting guidelines will be provided closer to the due date.  Late papers will not be accepted.  If a paper is not turned in by the assigned date, the grade will automatically be an ‘F’. The oral Presentation is required and is part of the graded portion of the assignment. You must limit your presentation to not more than 15 minutes. For affective presentation, you may use power point, transparencies, short films, audio aids, and/or other creative tools.

**No emailed assignments or papers will be accepted without prior arrangement having been made with the TA.

** Classroom civility: With all respect, please turn off your cell phones and do not read/eat/wearing earphones/and work on your other class assignments while in class.

TEST DATES:

FIRST EXAM:            MARCH 10

SECOND EXAM:             MAY 5

Paper Due:                        March 24

Course Evaluation

1)    A research paper (4 – 5 pages) OR group paper (10 – 15 pages) on the subject of love, intimacy, relationships, or related issues. Course project and presentations constitute 25% of the final grade. The project is central to the course and the topic must be chosen by the student and/or the group and approved by the teaching assistant and the instructor.

2)    Two exams 50% (each exam counts 25%).

3)    Quizzes 9%.

4)    Class participation and group discussions 16%.

Course Schedule and Reading Assignments

Please pay attention to the course schedule and complete reading assignments before coming to class.

TOPICS and READINGS:

January 20^th: Introduction to Course description, objectives, overview of readings and assignments.

January 22 ^/25: Concepts and Perspectives; Biology of Love

Readings:

• David Buss, “The Evolutionary Biology of Love,”
• Helen Fisher, “The Nature and Evolutionary of Romantic Love,”
• Helen Fisher et. al “Defining the Brain System of Lust, Romantic Attraction and Attachment”

January 27 /29; Feb 1 The mythological and spiritual aspects of love;

Form and Formless (lecture)

Feb 1/3: Theories of Love; Types of Love; Features of Romantic Love

Readings:

• Anne. E. Beall & R.J. Sternberg, “The Social Construction of Love,”
• R. Sternberg, “A Triangular Theory of Love,”
• P. R. Shaver et al, “Is Love a Basic Emotion?”
• Nathaniel Branden, “ A Vision of Romantic Love,”
• Phyllis Krystal, “What is Love,”

February 5^th: Sex and love in early Eastern civilizations: Innana, love, and the pairs of opposite

Readings:

• T. Jacobson, from Sumerian poetry in translation: “Introduction; and Royal   Love Songs, “

February 8/10: Sex and love in ancient Eastern and Western civilizations: the Egyptians, the Greeks, and the Romans. Plato’s Symposium.

Readings:

• Singer, “Concept of Love in the West,”
• L. Stone, “Passionate Attachments in the West in Historical Perspective,”
• Plato’s ‘Symposium’
• Sappho, poems
• Ovid, “the art of love,”

February 12/15 Plato’s symposium [Group Discussion 1]

February 17/19: Love in the Middle Ages: The

Persian tale of Khosrow and Shirin; and the Western courtly love of Tristan and Isolde: Pathways to the modern era.

Readings:

• Nizami, “Khosrow and Shirin,”           
• J. Campbell, "A Noble Heart, the Courtly Love of Tristan and Isolde:,"
• A. Capellanus, “On Love.”

FEBRUARY 22^nd: paper discussion

February 24/26: Love and capitalism—private lives and public order: the intimate relationships in American social history.

                                    [Group Discussion 2]

Readings:

• E. From, " Love and Economic Competition,"
• K. Marx and F. Engels, “Women in Capitalist Society,”
• H. Gadlin, “Private Lives & Public Order: A Critical View of the History of Intimate Relations in the United States,”
• Ann Swidler, “Love & Adulthood in American Culture,”

February Mar 1--8: Topic continues. Love, intimacy, Dating, and Sexuality in Modern societies. College women and mating in the U.S. (EXAM REVIEW)

Readings:           

• Beth Bailey, “Sexual Revolution(s),”
• Mary Evans, “The Language of Love,”
• Barbara Risman and p. Schwartz, “After the sexual revolution: gender politics in the teen dating” *(BB)
• Ghadal al-Samman, “The Sexual Revolution and the Total Revolution,”
• Giddens, "Ch. 1,3,4"
• College Women and Dating. N. Glenn and E. Marquardt, “Hooking up, Hanging out, and Hoping for Mr. Right: college women on dating and mating today”

March 9^th: FIRST EXAM

March 12^th: Selective topic: College women and mating in the U.S.

March 15^th – 19^th: Spring Break

March 22^nd  – 26^th:  Love and marriage beyond western culture: Collectivistic and individualistic societies; comparative studies of personal choice and arranged marriage.

Readings:

• W.R. Jankowiak, “A Cross-Cultural Perspective on Romantic Love,”
• K. Dion and K. L. Dion, “Cultural Perspectives on Romantic Love,”
• B. B. Ingoldsby, “Mate Selection and Marriage Around the World,”
• W. Jankowiak , "Romantic Passion in the People’s Republic of China,"
• Stephanie Coontz: “The Radical Idea of Marrying for Love
• Johanna Lessinger, Asian Indian Marriages----Arranged, Semi-Arranged or          Based on Love?”
• Balmurli Natarajan, Notes Towards a (Re)Arranged of Love,”

March 26^th : Paper Due

March 29 /31^tst: Intercultural and Interracial relationships [PROJECT PRESENTATIONS]

Readings:

• L. Page, "Denmark’s a Prison,"
• N. Egan, "Crossing Cultures: the Story of a Chinese Man and an American Woman,"
• Egon Mayer, “Two can make a Revolution”
• D. S. Wilson & C.K. Jacobson, "White Attitudes Towards Black and White Interracial Marriage,"
• Zhenchao Qian, “Breaking the last taboo: interracial marriage in America” *(BB)
• Shirley A. Hill, “Black Intimacy---Love, Sex, and Relationships---the Pursuit of Intimacy”

April 2/5: Self Identity and Intimacy in the Middle

 [PROJECT PRESENTATIONS]

Readings:

• Nawa Al-Sadawi, “Growing Up Female in Egypt,”
• W. N. Njambi and W.E. O’Brien, “Revisiting Woman-Woman Marriage”
• Mahnaz Kousha, “A Man or a Woman? Which is Better Off?
• Simin Bihbihani, “Oh, I Made Love,”

April 7^th: Selective topic: Objectification and gender

April 9/12: Gender, love, and intimacy [GROUP DISCUSSION 3 & PROJECT PRESENTATIONS]

Readings:

• S. de Beauvoir, "The Second Sex,"
• F.M. Cancian, “The Feminization of Love”
• M. Kimmel, “Masculinity as Homophobia: Fear, Shame, and Silence in the Construction of Gender Identity,”
• J.W. Sattel, “The Inexpressive Male:  Tragedy or Sexual Politics”
• J. Wood, “Gendered Close Relationships”
• Judith Levine, “ What is Wanting? Gender, Equality, and Desire,”
• L. Rubin, “The Approach-Avoidance Dance:  Men, Women, and Intimacy

April 14^th- - 16^th [PROJECT PRESENTATIONS]

April 19^th- - 23^th [PROJECT PRESENTATIONS]                                   

April 26-30 : Meeting the shadow: self and love (GROUP DISCUSSION 4) and presentations.

Readings:

• R. C. Solomon, "The Self in Love,"
• D. Schnarch,       “Differentiation: Developing a Self–in-Relationship,”
• Ann Swidler, ch. 7 “Ties That Do Not Bind”
• J. Cherlin, I’m o.k., you’re selfish,”
• R. Bly, "The Long Bag We Drag Behind Us,"
• C. Whitmont, “The Evolution of the Shadow,             
• M. Scott Peck, "Healing Human Evil,"
• Ken Wilber, “Taking Responsibility for Your Shadow,”
• R. Bly, "Eating the Shadow,"             

May 3^rd : Love and Violence: Searching for the New

Eves and the New Adams. [PROJECT PRESENTATIONS]

EXAM REVIEW

Readings:

• F.S. Christopher and S. A. Lloyd, “Physical & Sexual Aggression in Relationships,”
• Neil S. Jacobson & J.M. Gottman, “Anatomy of a Violent Relationships,”
• Riane T. Eisler, "The New Eves and the New Adams: The Courage to Question and to Choose, and the Power to Love,"
• Elaine Hatfield, “From Male Supremacy to Gender Equality,”

May 5^th:            SECOND EXAM

May 7^th            Selective topic

Please check back for updates.

Time and Place: TTH 2:00-3:00, CMA A2.320 (Lecture)

F 9:00-10:00, BUR 220 (Discussion/Lab) (46380)
F 10:00-11:00, CBA 4.4328 (Discussion/Lab) (46385)

F 11:00-12:00, BUR 130 (Discussion/Lab)(46390)

F 1:00-2:00, MEZ 1.206 (Discussion/Lab)(46395)

F 2:00-3:00, WEL 3.402 (Discussion/Lab)(46400)

TH 3:30-4:30, RAS 211B (Discussion/Lab)(46405)

Instructor: Mehdi Haghshenas                  TA Colleagues: Amin Shafeek:

Office: Burdine 539                                Office/office hours:

Office hours: TTH: 11:00-12:30             Yujin Kim: yjkim@mail.utexas.edu

Phone: 232-8064                                   Office/office hours:

                                                            Bob Sitko:

                                                            Office/Office hours:       

  Objectives

 Sociology 302 will offer insights to understand how social forces in society shape our behavior and influence our being. After all, we are the product of our society and vice versa. Our identities, hopes, fears, grievances and satisfactions derive from the patterns of socialization orchestrated within human groups.  In this class, you will be introduced to the basic concept of sociological imagination, mindfulness, and principles of sociological reasoning. Many societal issues will be examined through the practice of classical theories and sociological perspectives. In this course, you will become more familiar with the nature of sociology, social construction of reality, micro and macro sociological analysis, and concepts such as culture, socialization, social structures, self and society, stratification, gender inequality, love, marriage, and divorce. Finally, we will explore the sociology of health, medicine, and the mind-body connection. In this course, we will: a) create an environment that encourages active participation, group interaction, and discussion in the learning process; b) actively encourage critical thinking through mindfulness and sociological imagination; c) use a variety of techniques in the teaching and learning process to develop a deep understanding of social-psychological reasoning, and d) we will assess and evaluate your work and give timely feedback.

  Reading List:

Text Book: James M. Henslin. 2009. Sociology:  A Down to Earth Approach (Eight or ninth edition).

Reading Packet:  in addition to your general sociology text, you are provided with more readings on certain topics for in-depth analysis and discussion. These readings are photocopied articles available as a packet under my name at: Paradigm (407 W. 24^th St.)

*Assigned readings with asterisk below can be found on Blackboard (BB): http://courses.utexas.edu

  Format and Evaluation:

This course will use a combination lecture-discussion style format. Regular attendance is required. The repercussion of being absent a total of 4 or more classes for the entire Fall semester, without justifiable reason, is that your grade will automatically be lowered by one letter.
Participants' performance in the course will be based on (a) three one hour examinations (each exams counts 20%); (b) one short project paper of 3-4 pages (20%); (c) Pop quizzes (6%); class participation and group projects (12%); individual assignments (2%). Taken together, the exams will amount 60% of the course grade. They will include multiple choice, and short answer questions. The tests are reviews of material covered in the class, group discussions, films, and readings. Exams will be taken in class. NO MAKE- UP QUIZ.

MAKE UP EXAMS: Will not be given without prior notice and a written excuse from a physician or other verified emergency situation.

Your paper may be a collaborative effort of 2 or 3 students. The topic must be chosen by the students and approved by the instructor and the TAs. The paper is to be typed only with 12 pt. Times or Courier font, 1.5 line spacing format, 1 to 1.25 inch margins, and numbered pages.   More content and formatting guidelines will be provided closer to the due date. Papers should be submitted in-person. Email submissions will not be permitted with the exception of prior approval. Late papers will not be accepted.  If a paper is not turned in by the assigned date, the grade will automatically be an F.

Quizzes and Exercises will be given occasionally as the measures of class attendance, discussion and participation. We will use them to get input and participation from all class members. Therefore,

ASSIGNED READINGS SHOULD BE COMPLETED BY THE DATES INDICATED.

IF YOU CANNOT REGULARLY MAKE IT TO THIS CLASS, OR CANNOT READ THE TEXTS FOR THE DATES THAT ARE ASSIGNED, PLEASE DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS.

  With all respect, please turn off your cell phones and do not read/work on your other class assignments while in class.

  TEST DATES:

  Test 1:  T, October 6

  Test 2:  T, November 3

  Test 3:  Th, December 3

  PAPER DUE DATE:  October 29   

Grades: Are assigned based on the standard scale: 90-92% = A-; 93-100%= A+; 80-82%= B-; 83-86%=B; 87-89.9% = B+; 70-72%=C-; 73-76%= C; 77-79.9% = C+; 60-62%= D-; 63-66= D; 67-69.9% = D+; <60 = F.  There are no grading curves or bonus opportunities.

Withdrawals:  As we journey into this course, if you are unsure of your status (especially if your grades are below average), please let us assist you to clarify your position. With all respect, if you decide to withdraw, do not miss the enforced deadline.

  Accommodations: Students with disabilities who need special accommodations should notify us by presenting a letter prepared by the Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) Office.

  Academic Integrity: During the coursework, you should maintain a high standard of individual honor in your scholastic work. Students who violate University rules on scholastic dishonesty are subject to disciplinary penalties, including the possibility of failure in the course and / or dismissal from the University.

  Course outline

  Please pay attention to the course schedule and complete reading assignments before coming to class.   

8/27

Introduction to Course

9/1

Topic:  Taking a New Look at the Familiar World: The Insights of Sociology

Readings:

1.  Peter Berger, "Invitation to Sociology"

2.  C. Wright Mills, "The Sociological Imagination"

3.  Michael Schwalbe, Selections from “The Sociologically Examined Life” * Chapter One: "Making Sense of the World Differently"

9/3-15

Topic:  The Classical Tradition and Sociological Perspectives (group discussion)

Readings:

1.  Chapter 1, James Henslin, "The sociological perspective"

2.  Emile Durkheim, “ What Make Sociology Different?” From The Rules of Sociological Method

3.  Emile Durkheim, "Egoistic suicide"

4.  Karl Marx, "The working of social class"

5.  Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, “The Communist Manifesto”

6.  Karl Marx, "Alienation in work"

7.  Max Weber, “the Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism”

9/17, 22, 24 (group discussion)

Topic:  Culture

Readings:

1.  Chapter 2;  James Henslin, "Culture"

2.  E.W. Fernea and R. Fernea, "A look behind the veil"

3.  Fatema Mernissi, “The Western Woman’s Harem”

4.  Horace Miner, "Body ritual among the Nacirema,"

5.  Edward T. Hall & M.R. Hall, "The sounds of silence”

6.  Marvin Harris, "India's sacred cow"

7.  Robert Levine, “A Geography of Time”

8.  E. Richard Sorenson, “Growing up as a Fore is to be in touch and free”

9/29;10, 1 (Exam Review)

Topic:  Social Construction of Reality, Building Identity, and Socialization

Readings:

1.  Chapter 3, James Henslin, "Socialization"

2.  Robert B. Moore, “Racism in the English Language”

3.  George H. Mead, “The Self as Social Structure,"   

4.  Patricia A. Adler & Peter Adler, “the Glorified Self.”

5.  Henry A. Giroux, “Disney, Casino Capitalism and the Exploitation of Young Boys: Beyond the Politics of Innocence”. *

October 6  (FIRST  EXAM)

10/8, 13 (group discussion)

Topic:  Social Structure, Social Interaction, and Presentation of Self

Readings:

1. Chapter 4, J. Henslin

2. Philip Meyer, "If Hitler asked you to electrocute a stranger, would you?                                    Probably"

3. Herbert Kelman and V. Lee Hamilton, “The My Lai Massacre: A Military Crime of Obedience”

4. Ervin Goffman, “The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life: Selection”

5. Eugenia Kaw, “ ‘Opening’ Faces: The politics of Cosmetic Surgery and Asian American                        Women”

6. Sharlene Hesse-Biber, “Becoming a Certain Body”

10/ 15, 20

Topic:  Organizations, Bureaucracy, and Work

Readings:

1. Chapters 7 and 14, J. Henslin
2. Max Weber, "Bureaucracy and Modern Society,"
3. Max Weber, “The Disenchantment of Modern Life”
4. Juliet B. Schor, “The Overworked American”
5. George Ritzer, "The McDonald's System”
6. John Van Maanen, “The Smile Factory: Work at Disneyland”
7. Arthur Levine & Jeanette Cureton, “When Hope and Fear Collide: A Portrait of Today’s College Student”

10/ 22, 27 (Paper Due October 29)

Topic:  Social Stratification (The Global Perspective), Power, Class, and Privileged

Readings:

1.  Chapters 9 and 10, J. Henslin

1. Herbert Gans, “The Uses of Povery: The Poor Pay All”
2. Jonathan Kozol, “Savage Inequality”
3. G. William Domhoff, “The Bohemian Grove”
4. Gregory Mantsios, “Media Magic: Making Class Invisible”
5. John Isbister, “The foundations of Third World Poverty”
6. William Greider, “These Dark Satanic Mills”

10/ 29 (Exam Review)

November 3      Second Exam

11/ 5 (group discussion), 10

Topic:  Social Inequality  (Continued); Gender Inequality and Work Force

Readings:

1. Chapter 11, J. Henslin
2. Arlie Hochschild & Anne Machung, "Men who share the second shift"
3. Ruth Sidel, “Mixed Messages”
4. Barrie Thorne, “Boys and Girls Together But Mostly Apart”
5. Allan Johnson, “Unraveling the Gender Knot”

11/12, 17

Topic:  Institutions:  Sociology of Love/ Marriage, Family, and Divorce

 Readings:

1.  Chapter 16, J. Henslin

1. Giri R. Gupta, "Love, arranged marriage, and the Indian social structure"
2. Frank Furstenberg, “The future of Marriage”
3. Karla Hackstaff, “Divorce culture: a quest for relational equality in marriage”
4. S. Coontz, “Where are the good old days”
5. Arlene and Jerome Skolnick, “Family in Transition”
6. Fred M. Hechinger, "Why France outstrips the United States in nurturing its children"

11/19, 24

Topic: The Sociology of the Body: Mind-body connection

Chapter 19, J. Henslin

1.  John H. Evans “A Brave New World? How Genetic Technology Could Change Us

2.  Keith J. Karren et al, “ Pshchoneuronimmunology: The Connection Between the Mind and the Body”*  On: BB

3.  Keith J. Karren et al, “Social Support, Relationships, and Health”* On: BB

4.  David A. Karp, “Depression, disconnection, and the Meanings of Illness”

12/ 1

Exam Review

December 3

Third Exam

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