Principles of Sociology

This course provides an introduction to the discipline of sociology, its major concepts, theories, and research methods, as well as key findings in the field. Using scientific and theoretical principles, students learn about the relationship between social organization, group dynamics, and human behavior, and about the functions of institutions such as religion, family, economy, government, education, the media, and medicine. Sub-topics include culture and identity development; group formation and dynamics; urban life and social change; causes and consequences of social inequality in areas of race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and social class.