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Course Description

Summary

This course will provide an introduction to microsociology (also called social psychology) and various theories of interpersonal behavior. In general, the purpose of this course is to help you build an understanding of the relationship between the individual and society. Attention will focus on the dynamics of interpersonal interaction, small groups (such as couples, families and social movements) and subcultures. You will also become familiar with the sociological analysis of seemingly personal phenomena such as cognition, perception, emotion and sensation. Many of the readings for each topic area will be drawn from social scientific studies of religion and spirituality; therefore, students with an interest in religion may find this course particularly appealing. The goal of this course is to provide students with a set of intellectual tools they can use to investigate and theorize about the micro-social dimensions of various situations, events, and social problems they encounter. Students will write three papers (approximately five pages each) in which they are required to apply a theoretical perspective we learn in class to an assigned or self-selected case. Students are expected to attend and actively participate in all classes, complete weekly readings and (short) written assignments, and submit three papers. Students will be evaluated on the basis of their participation in class discussions and the quality of their written assignments.