Social Theory (SY0028)

? Credit Points : 20 ? SCQF Level : 10 ? Acronym : SPS-3-SYST

This course aims to provide an understanding of historical traditions in social thought; lines of influence and debate and an understanding of the development of social thought from its 'origins' to contemporary times. Lectures begin with the analysis of the 'origins' of the foundational ideas of 'social theory' as a discreet area of enquiry; the founding figures and the development of their ideas. We then move to the key role linking past and present theories played by Parsons. Finally, selected contemporary theories representing significant traditions, their development from earlier strands, and their relation to one another is discussed.

Entry Requirements

none

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Sociology, (School of Social and Political Studies, Schedule J)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : 3rd year

? Delivery Period : Semester 1 (Blocks 1-2)

? Contact Teaching Time : 2 hour(s) per week for 10 weeks

First Class Information

Date	Start	End	Room	Area	Additional Information
25/09/2006	09:00	10:50	Faculty Room North, David Hume Tower	Central

All of the following classes

Type	Day	Start	End	Area
Lecture	Monday	09:00	10:50	Central

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

1. That students be able to evaluate a range of key concepts and theoretical approaches within Sociology.

2. That students be able to recognize the ways in which Sociology can be distinguished from other forms of understanding.

3. That students be able to analyze different understanding of the nature of social relationships.

4. That students have a developed sense of how processes of social change in society have impacted on social theorizing.

5. That students be able to evaluate the relationship between theorists' arguments and the way they use evidence to justify those arguments.

6. That students further develop their skills in presenting scholarly work, including the evaluation of theories and evidence for those theories.

7. That students be able to assess the relevance of theory to historical and contemporary social, public, or civic issues.