Department of Social & Policy Sciences, Unit Catalogue 2007/08 |
SP30118 Theoretical issues II: subjectivities & identities |
| Credits: 6 |
| Level: Honours |
| Semester: 1 |
| Assessment: EX100 |
| Requisites: |
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Aims:
1. To outline and analyse key contemporary theoretical debates in sociology. 2. To critically assess the significance of these debates to 21st Century societies and sociology as a discipline. 3. In particular the unit will address the connections, tensions and contradictions between the following: * the fragmentation of modernity; * challenges to 'objective truth'; * the 'triumph' of postmodernism and postmodernity; * globalisation and the shrinkage of space; * (world) risk society; * identity and subjectivity; * gender, particularly theories of masculinities and feminities; * sexuality and performativity; * the body in identity formation and assertion; * 'hate' crime and the suppression of the Other. Learning Outcomes: By the end of the unit, students should be able to: 1. Outline and analyse key contemporary theoretical debates. 2. Critically assess them in light of current research findings. 3. In particular review and assess the significance and implications of: * theories concerned with the apparent fragmentation of modernity and the emergence of 'postmodernity', 'late modernity' or 'reflexive modernity'; * theoretical assertions made by 'postmodernists' and their critics; * globalisation and the shrinkage of space; * the notion of a (world) risk society; * debates on identity and subjectivity, with particular reference to gender, sexuality, the body and hate crimes. Skills: * To think creatively and analytically; * To communicate an argument; * To evaluate others' arguments; * To select appropriate and relevant theoretical material from a wide source and large body of knowledge; * To synthesise information from a number of sources in order to gain a coherent understanding; * To develop a theoretical framework to assist in their understanding and analysis of current debates in sociology; * To develop study and learning skills (note taking, avoiding plagiarism, using the library, gathering and using information, constructing a bibliography, referencing); * To develop basic Information and Computing Technology skills (word processing, email, using the web to search for information); * To develop essay research, preparation and writing skills; * To construct a bibliography; * To develop time-management and administrative skills; * To develop communication and debating skills; * To reflect upon his/her own academic and professional performance and take responsibility for personal and professional learning and development; * To manage time effectively and respond to changing demands; * To prioritise workloads, and utilise long- and short-term planning skills. Content: The fragmentation of modernity; challenges to 'objective truth'; the alleged 'triumph' of postmodernism and postmodernity; globalisation and the shrinkage of space; (world) risk society; identity and subjectivity; gender; sexuality and performativity; the body and identity formation and assertion; 'hate' crime and the suppression of the Other. |