This course is intended to introduce the students to the substantive, theoretical and methodological issues which have shaped the sociological thinking in the latter half of the 20th century, and which continue to concern the practitioners of sociology today. The main focus of this course will be on the perspectives on Evolution, Rational choice and Modernity as well as the Feminist theories. The course will also examine the theoretical relevance and analytical utility of the premises, methodology and conclusions of these diverse theoretical perspectives in understanding social structure and change.
Ø George Homans: Elementary Social Behaviour
Peter Blau: Exchange and Integration
Ø Anthony Giddens: Modernity and its Consequences
Ø Ulrich Beck: The Risk Society; George Ritzer: McDonaldization, Globalization/ Americanization and New Means of Consumption