SOC 1A: Order and Change in SocietyInstructor: Rachel Guaderrama Prerequisites: Course Description: This course is an introduction to the basic concepts, topics, and methods of sociology. You will be challenged to question your everyday world, connect individual biography to social history, and critically think through the social phenomena around you. We will ask questions about how and why society is organized the way that it is, and answer them through the analysis of how lives are shaped by (often invisible) social forces and processes. We will develop our sociological imaginations to understand how sociologists design research questions and choose the appropriate methods for their investigations. In this introduction to sociology, we will explore it as a social science with its own key methodological and conceptual toolkits. </br></br> This introduction to sociology primarily focuses on the U.S., although some readings will focus on other national contexts, and you are encouraged to extend your sociological imagination beyond the U.S. We will closely read books and articles by sociologists, watch and listen to topical videos, films, and podcasts, explore data visualizations, and read popular media articles and think-pieces. The course materials are curated and organized to introduce you to key concepts and perspectives, while also giving you an opportunity to “do sociology” by extending your analytical gaze on the different materials and assignments. Session: Session II Day: M, T, Th Time: 11:10am - 1:40pm Credit Hours: 4 Credits Course Format: On-Campus Course for Summer 2026 Brandeis Graduation Requirement Fulfilled: DEIS-US, SS Enrollment Limit: Course Classification: Undergraduate Level Course Course Tuition: $3,825 Course Fees: None Open to High School Students: Yes |
