SOC 330 - Social Stratification

Prerequisite

SOC 100 (General Sociology) or SOC 105 (Social Problems).

Description

Social stratification is central to the organization of every human culture. Social equality is a fundamental aspect of most social processes. A person's position in the stratification system is a predictor of his or her behavior, attitudes, and life chances. The course analyzes the connections between social class, gender, race, and ethnicity. Understanding social stratification helps us to understand a wide range of social changes in the global community. This course reviews the classical theories and debates regarding social stratification, as well as examining the contemporary realities of the world today. By the end of the course, the student will be able to have the knowledge and skills to carry out the objectives for the course.

Objectives for the course: To examine the hierarchical differentiations characterizing human society with a particular focus on the United States. To analyze the ideological and practical justifications offered for the existence of social inequality. To present conceptual and methodological tools for the analysis of the lifestyles and life changes of diverse social groupings. To promote an understanding of the various kinds of relationships that occur within structural levels and between members of different social strata.

This course can be applied towards:

• Liberal Arts (B.A.)

Textbooks and Materials

Textbooks and materials can be purchased at the CSU Bookstore unless otherwise indicated.

Required

• Social Stratification and Inequality, 7th Ed. (2008)
  Kerbo, Harold
  ISBN: 978-0073380070

Instructors

Trena Anastasia
tanastas@uwyo.edu