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for a past academic year. Please see the current academic year for up to date information.
| Unit name |
Key Social Thinkers |
| Unit code |
SOCI10006 |
| Credit points |
20 |
| Level of study |
C/4
|
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24)
|
| Unit director |
Professor. McLennan |
| Open unit status |
Not open |
| Pre-requisites |
None
|
| Co-requisites |
None
|
| School/department |
School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies |
| Faculty |
Faculty of Social Sciences and Law |
Description including Unit Aims
This unit is an introduction to classical sociological theory, focusing on the 'founding fathers' of the discipline of sociology. Key topics likely to be addressed include the writings of Karl Marx, Max Weber, Emile Durkheim and George Simmel. Challenges to the tradition will also be considered, along with the legacy of the classical tradition for the contemporary world and for contemporary sociology.
Aims:
- To introduce students to key writings in classical sociological theory.
- To outline problems with and challenges to the idea of a ‘classical tradition’ in sociology.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the unit, students will be able to
- Demonstrate understanding of the context of the emergence of classical sociology (1)
- Demonstrate understanding of key writings in classical sociological theory (2)
- Demonstrate awareness of key challenges and limitations of the idea of the “classical tradition” (3)
Teaching Information
1 x 2hr lecture and 1 hour seminar.
Assessment Information
- 1500 word essay for formative development
- Two hour examination (assessing LOs 1, 2, and 3)
Reading and References
- Calhoun, C. 2002, Classical Sociological Theory, Oxford: Blackwell
- Craib, I. 1997 Classical Social Theory, Oxford:OUP
- Giddens, A. 1973 Capitalism And Modern Social Theory, Cambridge:CUP
- Morrison, K. 2006, Marx, Durkheim and Weber, London:Sage
- Tucker, K. 2001, Classical Social Theory: A Contemporary Approach, Oxford: Blackwell
- Turner, B. 1999, Classical Sociology, London:Sage
