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Contemporary Society: Field and Case Studies

Module description

This course introduces you to the subject matter of sociology by looking at a diverse range of research areas. In the manner of case studies we will consider the transitions from modernity into the present. We will ask to what extent these transitions and transformations are reflected in those cases, to what extent traditional and modernist structures and norms are resilient, and what these cases could tell us about the nature of contemporary society. Also, the different topics may serve as problematising mini-introductions to the respective specialist sociologies.

Module aims - intentions of the module

This module is designed to complement the stage one modules that are concerned with theoretical and/or methodological approaches to sociology. Introducing specialist fields in sociology by connecting them to general developments is intended to further develop a critical understanding of the transformation of modern societies to the present day, with a particular focus on the last three decades.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

ILO: Module-specific skills

On successfully completing the module you will be able to...

• 1. demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the specific fields within the sociology of contemporary society that are the subject matter of this module;
• 2. demonstrate analytical understanding approaching diverse and distinct developments in contemporary society;

ILO: Discipline-specific skills

On successfully completing the module you will be able to...

• 3. demonstrate the ability to relate a body of Sociological knowledge to a specific context;
• 4. think clearly and argue logically about contemporary societies; expressing sociological ideas both orally and in writing;

ILO: Personal and key skills

On successfully completing the module you will be able to...

• 5. demonstrate the ability to undertake independent study; and
• 6. demonstrate the ability to select appropriately from a range of suggested material and to present key arguments clearly.

Syllabus plan

This course approaches Contemporary Society by focusing on particular issues and topics including the following:

• The family
• Community
• Sexuality
• Madness and psychiatry
• Technology
• Consumption
• Social movements

Learning activities and teaching methods (given in hours of study time)

Details of learning activities and teaching methods

Formative assessment

Summative assessment (% of credit)

Details of summative assessment

Details of re-assessment (where required by referral or deferral)

Indicative learning resources - Basic reading

Delanty, G. (2010) Community, 2^nd edition, London: Routledge

Weeks, J (2003) Sexuality (2nd Edition). London: Routledge

Cockerham, W.C. (2011). Sociology of Mental Disorder, 8^th edition, London: Prentice Hall

Haugaard, M. (2002) Power: A Reader, Manchester: Manchester University Press

Sassatelli, R. (2007) Consumer Culture: History, Politics and Theory, London: Sage

Suchman, L. (2007) Human–Machine Reconfigurations: Plans and Situated Actions, revised edn, New York: Cambridge University Press

Martell, L. (2010) The Sociology of Globalisation, Cambridge: Polity

Della Porta, D. and Diani, M. (2006) Social Movements: An Introduction, 2^nd edition, Oxford: Blackwell

Indicative learning resources - Web based and electronic resources

ELE – https://vle.exeter.ac.uk/

Key words search

Contemporary sociological issues, contemporary sociological topics, current sociology