Module Catalogue 2025/26

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

Social theory is an important part of the social sciences in general and, therefore, for the discipline of sociology. However, it can often seem abstract or impenetrable to everyday social concerns. Our aim on this module is to explore social theory by examining the things that we do with society, drawing links between contemporary understandings of society, the operation of power, and the working of politics in diverse settings and domains.

Specific module aims:

•       To explore a range of complementary and conflicting perspectives in critical social theory.

•       To approach critical social theory by examining a range of practical applications and political dilemmas.

•       To understand the relationship between theory and practice in the development of social thought and social theorising.

Outline Of Syllabus

The module will consider some or all of the following themes in sessions that each apply concerns in critical social theory to relevant examples and case material:

•       The discovery of 'society' as a domain of social needs and regulation.

•       The 'imagination' of society in social thought and political practice.

•       The development of governmentality and biopolitical power.

•       The operation of power in society across multiple scales and levels.

•       The prominence of ideas about social order, cohesion or integration.

•       The role that values and judgments play in constituting normative social orders.

•       The function of social critique in accounting for the totality of social relations.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

By engaging with the module, students can expect:

•       To develop an understanding of the role that ideas and images of society play in social and sociological theory.

•       To become familiar with a range of ideas and perspectives in critical social theory.

•       To draw connections between understandings of society, the working of power, and the operation of politics in diverse settings and domains.

•       To explore the applicability of perspectives in critical social theory for their own areas of interest.

Intended Skill Outcomes

This will develop students' capacities to evaluate and synthesise material from different sources; develop critical and independent thinking; critically assess, present and summarise social science data; and explore the insights and limitations of theoretical and conceptual perspectives. It will also refine students' skills of verbal and written communication and debate.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Module meetings take the form of workshops that allow for the flexible combination of input, group work, moderated and student-led discussion. The focus of each meeting is on the reading, discussion and application of theory.
Students have the opportunity to explore theoretical and conceptual issues in some depth, to read around the topics, and to marshal sources to advance an argument.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

Essay format assessment provides the most appropriate method of evaluating students' understanding and conceptualisation of all relevant aspects of social theory in relation to sociology. The essay format assignment gives students the opportunity to demonstrate their interpretive understandings of the topics covered on the module and also gives students the opportunity to develop a piece of work on a topic of their choice in utilising the materials taught.

General Notes

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