Sociology (2007/2008)

Learning outcomes

The course is aimed at introducing basic concepts and theories of Sociology. Micro and macro interpretation of social phenomena, social change related to family, politics and economy will be explained and critically discussed. Particular attention will be dedicated to how sociology has developed specific instruments in order to analyze social phenomena: this year’s topic will be chronic illness.

Part I
1. Sociology as science. Rise and development of Sociology as science of modernity. Main classic authors and sociological theories: F.Tonnies; H.Spencer; E.Durkheim; M.Weber; K.Marx; G.Simmel; School of Chicago; T.Parsons and R.K.Merton; theories of the daily life.
2. The social tissue. Micro and macro-sociology. Individual action and reality social construction. Microsociological theories. Groups, associations, organizations.
3. Culture and social rules. Values, norms and institutions. Identity and socialization. Social control and deviance. Religions.

Part II
4. Inequality and differentiation. Social stratification and social classes. Kinds and cycles of life (age). Races, ethnicities and nations.
5. Social reproduction. Family and education institutions.
6. Economy and society. Job, production and consumption.
7. Illness as social construction and the individual-society relationship.

Readings:
Bagnasco A., Barbagli M., Cavalli A. (2007), Corso di sociologia, Il Mulino, Bologna (Part I sections 2-6; Part II, sections 4-6).
P.Jedlowski (1998), Il mondo in questione, Carrocci, Roma; (chapters 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12) (Part I section 1).
Lonardi C. (2006), Racconti di cefalea. Approccio biografico alla malattia cronica, QuiEdit, Verona (part II) (Part II, section 7).

The examination will be written.