SOC 341 Urban Sociology

3 Credit(s) DPDS

This course introduces students to urban sociology by addressing the historical, social, and structural power dynamics that formed central cities, suburbia, and metropolitan areas in the United States. Topics include the changing conceptions of “community,” the effects of neighborhood characteristics on individual outcomes, the role of white supremacy, the drivers of categorical inequality, and the interaction of social structure, language, and political power on places, spaces, bodies, and the environment. We examine theories that have constituted sociology since its founding while centralizing the work of scholars of color throughout in understanding urban research, theory, and practice. We will explore foundational and contemporary sociological work, and look at urban sociology from a critical lens. Students will better understand current urban issues that impact their own identities. Prerequisite: SOC 110 or permission of Department Chairperson.