Department of Social & Policy Sciences, Unit Catalogue 2010/11 |
XX20187: Sociology of sexualities |
 Credits:
| 6 |
| Level:
| Intermediate |
| Period: | This unit is available in... |
| Semester 2 |
| Assessment:
| CW 100% |
| Supplementary Assessment: | Like-for-like reassessment (where allowed by programme regulations) |
| Requisites:
| |
| Description:
| Aims: To use a sociological lens to explore the intersection between sexualities, sexual behaviours and contemporary society. Learning Outcomes: On completion of this unit students should be able to: * Explain the complexity and difficulty in describing sexualities. * Understand the historical circumstances that have influenced how we view sex and sexualities today. * Appreciate the interplay between academics and activists in promoting social equity for members of marginalized groups. Skills: Production of concise, scholarly, written communication to agreed specifications and deadlines. Analysis and synthesis of written information from multiple sources. Working independently. Participation in group discussions. Evaluate research critically and assess a variety of information sources. Take responsibility for personal and professional learning and development. Content: This unit will introduce students to the background and principles of sociology and queer theory as applied to sexualities and sexual behaviours. It will introduce students to the history of sexualities in western cultures that have lead to the current zeitgeist. It will analyze the interplay between biology and sociology, and will critically question the utility and values associated with the dominant norms of heterosexuality and monogamy. |