SOCIOLOGY

The course is of an integrative nature and aims to complete the competences characterising the degree through the contribution of contemporary sociological reflection. The main sociological approaches that seek to interpret social change in an increasingly complex and articulated global context will be presented. In particular, the course will focus on the main sociological contributions aimed at critically studying the connection between economy and society.

Class attendance and individual study should enable students to: 1) get acquainted with the main sociological theories and their evolutions; 2) acquire a basic sociological language; 3) use sociological concepts to analyse the phenomena of contemporary society; 4) acquire a conscious perspective and critically reflect on contemporary social reality; 5) know how to critically consult reference texts.

The course is introductory and does not require prior knowledge or specific skills.

The course reviews the main topics in sociology, with a specific focus on those topics that may be of greatest interest and usefulness for university students of an economics degree. Specifically, the course focuses on:
- An introduction to sociology;
- Macro theories (functionalism and political economy);
- Micro theories (rituals, exchange, social roles, social construction of reality);
- Meso theories (network theories);
- An overview of the contemporary debate.

Required texts:
1) Collins R. (2006), Teorie sociologiche, Il Mulino, Bologna: chapters 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10.
2) Baert P., Carreira Da Silva F. (2010), La teoria sociale contemporanea, Il Mulino, Bologna: chapters 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.
3) Supplementary material uploaded in Moodle.

Learning is tested by means of a written test consisting of 4 open questions. Students will be required to demonstrate specific knowledge of the topics covered in the required texts, and the critical ability to apply theoretical approaches to the analysis of contemporary society will be particularly appreciated.
The final assessment will be based on the following criteria: mastery of sociological language; knowledge of sociological theories and ability to discuss them; ability to analyse the phenomena of contemporary society.

Classroom lectures. Active and critical student participation is particularly appreciated.

Italian

written