Social TheoryLaajuus (5 cr)

Objective

After completion of the course the student is able to
- identify key issues and concepts within social theory
- explore the society as a political and social construction and a social practice
- observe societal phenomena through social theory.

Content

The course focuses on theoretical conceptualizations and interpretations of social construction of reality, practices, and possibilities. Social theory explores the ways in which to explain and evaluate the world, what happens around us, what we can expect of the future, and how to affect societal reality.

Qualifications

SOPT1101 Johdatus sosiologiaan, SOPT0001 Johdatus valtio-oppiin ja SOPT0002 Introduction to International Relations

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

Fail: Performance is highly deficient or erroneous. The work may be based on serious misunderstandings.

Sufficient and satisfactory (1-2): Performance is lacking in scope, superficial, or corresponds poorly to the assignment. The author merely lists things out of context or addresses them one-sidedly. The work may contain errors or obscurities.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

Good and very good (3-4): Performance corresponds to the assignment, manifesting comprehension and a skill to analyse and justify. The author has addressed the issue comprehensively. The work may contain some deficiencies.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

Excellent (5): Performance delineates an extensive whole and the author can apply knowledge in a multifaceted way or place it in various contexts. The work manifests independency and insight, and it is a flawless entity that involves justified thinking or critical contemplation. The work is well written and implemented.

Materials

Göran Therborn (2011) The World: A Beginner’s Guide.
Peter L. Berger & Thomas Luckmann (1966) The Social Construction of Reality.
Francis Fukuyama (2018) Identity: The Demand for Dignity and the Politics of Resentment.