Sociology

Objective

This course is an advanced introduction to the sociological analysis of the social world. Its goal is to familiarize you with contemporary sociology, sharpen your ability to critically read research texts, and introduce you to the notion of mechanisms in explaining social action.
A central question will be addressed: the production and maintenance of boundaries between social groups. This theme will serve as an entry point to explore different schools of sociological thought: theories of socialization, network analysis, sociology of social mobility, the role of devices in action, and more.

This course is open to all students interested in social phenomena, regardless of their academic background. It extends the sociology curriculum of the prépa BL by focusing on contemporary approaches and ongoing research in sociology, and builds upon the 1A course “Introduction aux sciences sociales” by delving into sociological theory in greater depth. However, no prior knowledge is required, and it is equally aimed at students who have never studied sociology and wish to better understand major social transformations.

Course Structure
The program alternates between lectures and collective discussions of contemporary research articles. The five discussion sessions require prior reading of the article.

Course Objectives
•    General knowledge in sociology
•    Introduction to sociological theory
•    Critical reading of research articles

Planning

Session 1 – Introduction: sociological theory
Session 2 – Reading a research article in Sociology / Exercises
Session 3 – Lecture: Socialization, Dispositions, Values
Session 4 – Discussion: Kevin Kiley & Steven Vaisey, "Measuring Stability and Change in Personal Culture Using Panel Data", ASR, 2020
Session 5 – Lecture: Symbolic Boundaries and Social Groups
Session 6 – Discussion: Laura Lungu, "Bling-Bling politics: exposure to status-goods consumption shapes the social policy preferences of the less affluent", SER, 2023
Session 7 – Lecture: Resources and Social Mobility
Session 8 – Discussion: Daniel Laurison & Sam Friedman, "The Class Pay Gap in Higher Professional and Managerial Occupations", ASR, 2016
Session 9 – Lecture: Networks and Social Capital
Session 10 – Discussion: Daniel DellaPosta, Yongren Shi & Michael Macy, "Why Do Liberals Drink Lattes?", AJS, 2015
Session 11 – Lecture: Devices and Objects in Action
Session 12 – Discussion: Maria Norbrandt, "Affective polarization in the digital age: Testing the direction of the relationship between social media and users’ feelings for out-group parties", NMS, 2023