10134 Introduction to Sociology

Credits: 6 introductory credits in Sociology & Anthropology

Prerequisites: none

Recommended: Introduction to the Social Sciences

The course is based on a translation of Sociology (6th ed.), by J.J. Macionis (Prentice Hall, 1997); and includes a series of films, “Exploring Society” (2002, 22 parts).

The course acquaints students with the sociological perspective as a way of understanding the components of social reality. This objective is translated into the following learning goals: To acquaint the student with basic concepts used as analytical tools in sociology; To present sociological theories in various areas – the family, social stratification, deviance; To develop the ability to apply these concepts and theories to an understanding of actual situations in Israeli society; To develop a critical approach to the theories presented, focusing on competing theoretical perspectives.

Topics: The sociological perspective; Social organization; Culture; Socialization; Groups and organizations; Family; Deviance; Community; Collective behavior; Social stratification; Political sociology; The work of the sociologist.