SOC-200 Social Problems
A sociological examination of the causes, consequences and extent of persisting social problems. Special attention will be given to an examination of our economic and political structure along with an examination of various forms of social inequality. Social and political policy considerations will also be studied as they bear upon possible solutions to social problems under study.
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Course Outline
Course Description
A sociological examination of the causes, consequences and extent of persisting social problems. Special attention will be given to an examination of our economic and political structure along with an examination of various forms of social inequality. Social and political policy considerations will also be studied as they bear upon possible solutions to social problems under study.
Credit Hours
3Course Learning Outcomes
- Identify social problems in American society
- Describe the extent, causes and consequences of persisting social problems
- Apply core sociological concepts in the analysis of social problems
- Evaluate social and political policy alternatives
- Recognize how values and priorities influence how conditions in society come to be defined as social problems
- Recognize larger global issues that impact persisting social problems
- Assess how large scale social problems impact our local communities and demonstrate a knowledge of approaches that can be used at a local level to find solutions to various social problems
Topic Outline
- 1. Defining social problems, historical perspectives, and public perceptions
- 2. Economic structure and social problems
- 3. Political structure and social problems
- 4. Social inequality in the U.S. and global stratification
- 5. Social and political policy
- 6. Particular social problems, which may include:
- a. War and militarism
- b. The environment and environmental sustainability
- c. The workplace
- d. Family problems
- e. Crime
- f. Substance abuse
- g. Education
- h. Healthcare