Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2017 - SA 250 D100

Introduction to Sociological Theory (S) (4)

Class Number: 3021

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 8 – Aug 4, 2017: Mon, 1:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    SA 150.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An account of sociological theory, outlining the main ideas and concepts of the principal schools of thought.

COURSE DETAILS:

In this introductory course, we will examine the development of various sociological theories and their relevance to the present, within the sociological discipline, in social institutions, processes, and in everyday life. Our focus will be broad in order to provide students with a survey of the classical and contemporary works. Part I of the course will explore the sociological cannon made up of the works of Émile Durkheim, Karl Marx, Max Weber. Part II will consider the theoretical traditions of functionalism, conflict theory, symbolic interaction, feminism and neo-marxism. Part III will provide students with an overview of recent theoretical developments by taking stock of poststructural, queer, critical race, and actor-network theory.

Grading

  • Participation & Attendance 15%
  • Group Presentation 15%
  • Term Test 1 20%
  • Term Test 2 20%
  • Self-Reflexive Commentary (10-12 pages) 30%

NOTES:

The Department of Sociology and Anthropology follows SFU policy in relation to grading practices, grade appeals (Policy T 20.01) and academic dishonesty and misconduct procedures (S10.01‐ S10.04).  Unless otherwise informed by your instructor in writing, in graded written assignments you must cite the sources you rely on and include a bibliography/list of references, following an instructor-approved citation style.  It is the responsibility of students to inform themselves of the content of SFU policies available on the SFU website: http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student.html.    

REQUIREMENTS:

All graded assignments in this course must be completed for a final grade other than N to be assigned.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

George Ritzer and Jeffery Stepnisky. 2014. Sociological Theory, 9th edition, Toronto: McGraw-Hill.
ISBN: 9780078027017

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS