Sociology aims to explain the diverse and complex relations among individuals or, as a pioneering sociologist put it, “the bonds that unite [people] to one another”. Instances of these bonds include “family”, “ethnicity”, “class”, “institutions” or “social structure”. Sociology makes evident our interdependence and location in larger social configurations by focusing on relations and not solely on individuals or even groups. Specifically, it strives to examine the bases of solidarity, categorical inequalities (e.g. gender, race, class), institutions (e.g. law or education), and social change. Contemporary sociologists are an eclectic bunch with diverse epistemological starting points, correspondingly distinct theories, and a range of methodological approaches. Therefore, an introductory course can either give a sampling of this diverse discipline or, in the approach adopted here, focus on fundamentals.

We will draw on sociological studies to explore (a) inequality along three axes (class, ethnicity, and gender), (b) key social institutions and mechanisms for social change, and (c) bases of social solidarity. Although the course is organized to focus on all of these areas, it is weighted toward categorical inequalities because this accurately reflects the current disciplinary agenda. Finally, the readings selected for this course are intended to serve as exemplars of research in two distinct traditions of social scientific inquiry. Conley’s work on income and wealth illustrates the tradition of standard causal analysis and quantitative methods, while MacLeod’s Ain't No Makin' It is an example of interpretive qualitative work and ethnographic methods. By the end of this course, participants should understand each of these analytic and research traditions as well as their strengths and weaknesses.