SOCIOL 203

Social Reality and Ideology

Description

Sociologists construe ideology as ideas that conceal social inequalities. This course explores the meaning of ideology and some of its related concepts, such as hegemony, discourse and subjugation. It then critically analyses some of the most pervasive contemporary ideologies. Specifically, we will look at ideologies on competition and capitalism, the origins of profit, the faith we place in technology to solve social problems, discourses on law and order and the viability of democracy and a free press.

Course objectives

By the end of this course, a student should:

Have a general understanding of theory on ideology, representation and discourse
Be familiar with how sociocultural contexts, political and economic interests and ideologies intersect
Be able to identify and critically analyse contemporary ideologies using appropriate theory
Feel comfortable conducting independent research in light of broader sociological theories
Be confident with writing a 1500-word manuscript on a relevant topic that combines academic research, independently gathered data and critical analysis
Have some of the foundation necessary to think about and develop research questions and practices in future academic pursuits

To achieve the course objectives listed above you will need to:

Attend each weekly class
Read and understand each assigned reading
Participate in class discussions
Write a 500 word manuscript
Write a 1500 word manuscript
Sit one final exam

Availability 2025

Not taught in 2025

Lecturer(s)

Coordinator(s) Dr Ronald Kramer

Reading/Texts

All readings are included in the course reader.

Points

SOCIOL 203: 15 points

Prerequisites

60 points passed from BA courses