Introduction to Sociology CRN #40694

Instructor Information
Name:

Cathy Beighey

Email:

Use the internal e-mail under Classlist. If that is not possible,

cathy.beighey@aims.edu. Allow 24 hrs. for a response MondayFriday. Also check the Home Page and "FAQ".

Office:

GR- T & R WV #236, LV- M, W & F #207

Office Hours:

12:00-2:00pm

Phone:

(970) 339-6371

Technical Support:

Contact the Help Desk at 339-6380 or helpdesk@aims.edu

Course Information
Course Description: Sociology is the systematic study of the relationship between
people and society; therefore, this course includes an examination
of basic sociological principles, concepts, and theories as well as
human culture, societies, the socialization process, various types
of stratification (class, global, racial/ethnic, gender), race/ethnicity,
minority groups, deviance and crime, gender, and age. Students
explore and compare the various historic, cultural, and social
frameworks of the world, which results in an appreciation for
unique cultural identities. In addition, as societies around the
globe undergo almost unprecedented rapid change, this course
assists students in analyzing and interpreting historic as well as
contemporary issues. By using 'the sociological imagination' to link
micro-level individual experiences to macro-level social structures
and critical thinking skills as sociological 'tools', you will explore
your own perceptions, attitudes, and prejudices regarding
sexuality, diversity, class, gender, and race/ethnicity.
Course Orientation: 1/17, WV #107, 1:35-2:50pm
Prerequisites:

Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Internet Access, Media Player &

Adobe Reader (If you don't have it, you can download it for free at:
http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html). Also
refer to Computer Set Up and Browser & Plug-Ins.

Course Objectives:

Specifically, you will learn: 1) the framework, theoretical

paradigms, and underlying assumptions central to sociology, 2)
society as a dynamic system responsive to historical, economic,
cultural, and political influences, 3) how your micro-level, everyday
interactions are representative of and linked to macro-level social

structures, 4) the social and cultural aspects of social behavior due

to the socialization process, 5) about globalization and the ensuing
changes underway in the U.S. as well societies around the globe,
6) a deeper appreciation for various cultures and how they interact
in a larger global context, 7) a foundation from which to dissect
minority-majority group relations in addition to how race/ethnicity,
gender, and class are socially constructed concepts, 8) an
understanding of western and non-western cultures, values, and
social norms as well as the contributions and concerns of various
groups (ethnic/racial, gender, etc.), 9) to express (written and
orally) a well-informed interpretation of the social world based on
sound sociological reasoning that also reflects critical thought, 10)
sociological research methods and theories that also prepares you
for more in-depth studies in sociology.
General Education Competencies:
- Critical Thinking Skills
- To Read Critically and Thoughtfully
- Effective Written & Oral Communication
Textbook
Sociology, John Macionis, Prentice Hall, 13th Edition, 2010. Vol. I, 0558547664
Required Reading Articles & Macionis Website
These articles are on the Content Page and "On Reserve" in the Library.
On Exam #1
Reading #1- Giddens, "Sociology: A Brief but Critical Introduction
Reading #2- Miner, "The Body Ritual Among Nacirema"
Reading #3- Iyer, "The Global Village Finally Arrives"
Reading #4-"Macionis, "Marx's Concept of Alienation versus Durkheim's Concept of
Anomie"
On Exam #2- Reading #5- Kilbourne, "Beauty and the Beast of Advertising"
On Exam #3
Reading #6- Gibbs, "Working Harder, Getting Nowhere"
Reading #7- Waldman, "Welfare vs. Wealthfare"
Reading #8 Anderson, "Selling Crack"
Reading #9- Wilson, "Public Policy Research and The Truly Disadvantaged"
Reading #10- Snyder, "Self-Fulfilling Stereotypes"
Supplemental Material: Use the Learning Tools at Macionis' Website. Select a chapter
and take the practice quizzes, particularly before an exam.

Policies
So that you learn to more effectively state your beliefs and opinions on controversial
issues there will be several occasions for on-line discussions, debates, and exercises,
which will count towards your participation grade. Be prepared that some discussion
topics or comments may make you feel uncomfortable and challenge what you believe
to be true or right. But, it is my belief that such confrontation is an integral part of
learning and the virtual classroom is the ideal forum for such an exploration. Also,
'listening to' and learning from diverse views can enrich us all. The environment of this
class must be one that facilitates open, non-judgmental discussion. No disparaging
remarks will be tolerated in regards to ethnic background, gender, sexual preference,
socioeconomic background, etc. This includes having tolerance for differences of
opinion. If you are what I consider discourteous to another student or myself, it will be
reflected in your participation grade. (For further details please refer to the Standards of
Student Conduct in the 2012-2013 Aims Catalog). In return, I will do my best to uphold
this tenet and treat everyone's educated opinions/interpretations with due respect. If
you experience a particularly difficult time or feel uncomfortable with some issue, fellow
student (myself included), or any topic, PLEASE contact me so we can work it
out. Students are expected to adhere to academic honesty and any form of cheating or
plagiarism will result in a zero.
Students with disabilities that need accommodations are encouraged to contact the
Disability Access Center at 339-6251 or disabilities@aims.edu as soon as possible.
Students interested in tutoring should contact the Learning Commons in CCTR #270 at
339-6541, or if interested in online tutoring email tutoringrequest@aims.edu. Lastly,
per Aims policy, if you do not participate in our course for two weeks you will be
automatically dropped.
Class Format
I cannot make anyone learn anything, I can only offer knowledge and facilitate
learning. It is essential that distance learners be particularly self-motivated,
independent, and possesses effective study skills. You are expected to have the
reading completed so that you can effectively participate in the course. Before
attempting the assignments, complete the reading first and study the lecture
notes that highlight the chapter's main points. Both the text (print them so that you
can better use them to study) and audio lecture notes are on the Content page by
chapter. You can also download them at Mediacast. They are listed under "Social
Sciences-Sociology".
Because it is imperative that you regularly 'attend' class, all students are required to
log-on to our class at least three times per week to read announcements on the

home page, participate in discussions, etc. All students must participate in all
assigned discussions. Your discussion responses must be relevant to the assigned
topic, clearly answer the questions, and be well-written (i.e., proper grammar and
spelling, edited). Your discussion postings will be usually graded as Excellent (4/4),
Good (3/4), or Below Average (2/4). In addition, all students will submit several
participation activities that reflect involvement in the class (via visiting assigned web
sites and retrieving information, researching specific questions, etc.). I suggest you
make a concerted effort to: 1) ask and answer questions, 2) volunteer pertinent,
thought-out discussion contributions, 3) comment based on the readings and, 4) be an
active participant. Discussions, the quizzes, and the participation activities are
worth 24% of your final grade. The easiest way to earn extra credit is 'extra effort' in
the discussions and participation activities. Refer to the 'Drop Box' for all
assignments. Lastly, unless you experience unforeseen extenuating circumstances
and obtain prior approval, course work will NOT be accepted late.
Quizzes & Exams
There are two ten-point quizzes designed to help prepare you for the following exam so
take your time, but you must be 'up to speed' for the exam. Don't forget to take the
practice quizzes that are available on the Study Guide for each chapter. The exams
consist of multiple choice questions and reflect the reading and the lecture
notes. Exams #1-#3 are worth 50 points while the final exam is worth 90 points, 24% of
your final grade. You cannot exceed the time limit (plus the grace period) without
making prior arrangements. If you want an untimed exam, arrange to take it in the
Testing Center so it can be proctored. You must take ALL EXAMS (#1, #2, #3, and
the Final) within its availability period.
Exam Make-Up Policy
You must make arrangements with me prior to the end of the exam deadline in order to
be eligible for a make-up exam. If a dire emergency occurs immediately before the
deadline, I at least expect an e-mail. You may be required to submit verification of your
emergency and make-up exams will be taken in the Testing Center in CCTR #230.
Reaction Papers
Of the possible six papers, you are required to submit three two-page reaction papers
(15pts./paper) within its availability period. You can NOT submit more than three
reaction papers. By questioning accepted tenets of truth, morality, and the status quo
in general, these short papers are designed to assist you in looking at your social
world from a critical perspective. Generally, you will be asked to look at yourself, the
social construction of reality, agents of socialization, and the relationship between
them. Your papers should follow this format: an introductory paragraph with a thesis
statement and the body of the paper includes applicable sociological concepts and

terms central to the topic. In most instances, it will be difficult to effectively answer all
aspects of the question in less than one page, but it cannot be longer than two wellwritten pages. Type using font size 12 and double-space (1.5 space is acceptable) all
your papers. Proper grammar and spelling will be taken into account when assessing
a grade. I realize that this can be a potentially frustrating or intimidating exercise, but
writing is an exercise in which one improves with practice and I am more than willing to
assist anyone. I suggest the Writing Center in CCTR #270 and visit Purdue University
Website for help. Online writing assistance is also available at
http://www.aims.edu/student/online-writing-lab. After your reaction paper has been
graded, please review the returned paper for my comments and suggestions so
that you understand the material better and your work improves. All reaction papers
must be submitted as a Word document via the 'Drop Box' by the closing due
date. Save your reaction papers with your last name (i.e., beigheyrp1.doc).
Reaction Paper Assignments (Choose 3 of 6 Papers & See the Drop Box for their due date)
Paper #1: Interpret Miner's article (Required Reading #2) by applying the concepts of
ethnocentrism and cultural relativism. Specifically, what is ethnocentrism and cultural
relativism and how do those concepts relate to the article. (The concepts of
ethnocentrism and cultural relativism are NOT about establishing similarities or
differences between cultures). Lastly, what do you suggest to overcome feelings of
ethnocentrism when encountering a "different", seemingly "odd" culture?
Paper #2: Write an autobiography that reflects the people, places, and social
institutions (i.e., family, education, the mass media, religion, etc.) that have strongly
influenced and shaped your socialization. Specifically, what cultural values, social
norms, and beliefs did you learn from them?
Paper #3: Give example(s) of how you utilize impression management/"presentation of
self" techniques in your daily life and define/explain the concepts in the introductory
paragraph. Clearly state the social role you are performing, the desired impression,
and what specific 'presentation of self' techniques you use to make that impression.
Paper #4: Sociologists are interested in how people behave in the world on a microlevel as well as the generalizations, stereotypes, and social assumptions that people
often have about different genders. In this non-participatory activity you will observe the
behavior of men and women in a public place, and then write a report summarizing
your observations. See the 'Drop Box' for details.
Paper #5: How has sexism influenced your life? Where/how do you perceive sexism
and resulting issues? (Men this includes you too!) Be sure to apply sociological
concepts (sexism, gender roles, gender socialization, etc.).
Paper #6: Analyze a song (from any musical genre) by establishing connections
between the song's lyrics and relevant sociological concepts, terms, or theories.
Specifically, how do the lyrics directly illustrate the sociological concept? In your paper
include the definitions of the illustrated sociological concepts. Also include supporting

brief quotes from the lyrics. (You will need to get the lyrics). Focus your paper on a
quality analysis more than quantity. See the 'Drop Box' for details.
Reaction Paper Grading Guidelines
15-14 points- Use an excellent, well-thought example (s), illustrate applied theory,
exhibit insight by making connections to the course with only minimal grammar
mistakes, 13-12 points- An excellent example(s), including a solid reference to course
material and related concepts, minimal grammar errors, 11 points- Good example(s) of
course material, but exhibit a lack of conceptual or theoretical understanding, writing
errors, 10 points- A satisfactory example(s) that illustrates concepts, but a weak
connection to the course, several writing errors, 9 points- Failing to make connection(s)
to class, appearing to have minimal understanding of terms, poorly written.
Final Grade
Exam #1: 50 points (13%)
Exam #2: 50 points (13%)
Exam #3: 50 points (13%)
Cumulative Final Exam: 90 points (24%)
Participation- discussions, activities & two quizzes: 90 points (24%)
Three Reaction Papers (15pts. x 3 papers): 45 points (12%)
Your Final Grade is the percentage of the total points (375) you earn: 375-336 total
points=100%-90%(A), 335-298=89%-80%(B), 297-261=79%-70%(C), 260-223=69%60%(D), 222= 59%(F). To determine your grade at any time add the points you earned
(the numerator) and add the total possible points you could have earned at that point
(the denominator). Divide the numerator by the denominator and then multiply by 100
for your percentage grade. *** Per Aims policy, I can NOT grant Withdrawals.
DATE
1/14

TOPIC
Get Familiar with the Course

1/15
1/17
1/20
1/22
1/23

Sociology's Origins & Paradigms

Course Orientation
See Drop Box
See Drop Box
Culture, Subcultures &
Multiculturalism
See Drop Box
See Drop Box
*Last Day to Drop*
Societies & Social Change
See Drop Box
Exam #1 Study Day
See Drop Box

1/29
1/30
1/31
2/6
2/7
2/9

ASSIGNMENT
View/attend Aims Online & Read
Syllabus
Ch. #1 & Reading #1
Meet in WV #112 1:35-2:50pm
Introduction
Social Issue Group Analysis
Ch. #3, Readings #2-#3
'American' Culture Discussion
Paper #1 Due
Ch. #4 & Reading #4
Anomie & Alienation in Society
Take Practice Quizzes on Study Guide
Quiz #1 Due

2/10

See Drop Box

Exam #1

2/11

Socialization/Advertising & Gender

Socialization
See Drop Box
See Drop Box
See Drop Box
Symbolic Interactionism &
Impression Management
See Drop Box

Ch. #5, Reading #5 & Watch Killing Us

Softly
The American Family Discussion
TV Analysis
Paper #2 Due
Ch. #6

2/17
2/19
2/20
2/21
2/27
2/28
3/1
3/7
3/8
3/9
3/18
3/19
3/24
3/25

See Drop Box

Sociological Investigation &
Research Methods
See Drop Box
See Drop Box
Exam #2 Study Day
See Drop Box

Private Group Discussion: "Reality"

& Ethnocentrism
Paper #3 Due
Ch. #2
Sociological Analysis of Facebook
Paper #4 Due
Take Practice Quizzes on Study Guide
Exam #2
Ch. #10
Group Stratification Exercise
Ch. #12

4/12
4/15
4/16
4/17
4/23
4/24
4/25
4/27
4/28

Stratification Systems
See Drop Box
Global Stratification & Theories of
Global Inequality
See Drop Box
U.S. Social Classes & Life Chances
See Drop Box
Race & Ethnicity/Prejudice &
Discrimination
*Last Day to Withdraw*
See Drop Box
See Drop Box
Sex & Gender Stratification
See Drop Box
See Drop Box
Exam #3 Study Day
See Drop Box
See Drop Box

4/29
5/5
5/6
5/7
5/9

See Drop Box

Crime & Deviance
See Drop Box
Final Exam Study Day
See Drop Box

Ch. #9
Discussion of Crime & Deviance
Paper #6 Due
Take Practice Quizzes on Study Guide
Cumulative Final Exam (No Required
Reading Articles)

3/31
4/1
4/7
4/8

Global Stratification Research

Ch. #11 & Readings #6-#8
U.S. Class Research
Ch. #14, Readings #9-#10 & Watch
Beyond Hate
Identifying & Combating Prejudice
Affirmative Action Discussion
Ch. #13
Women in the Military Discussion
Paper #5 Due
Take Practice Quizzes on Study Guide
Quiz #2 Due
Exam #3

Ch.= Textbook Chapter, Reading # = Required Reading Article listed in syllabus, Paper # = Refer to Reaction Papers

Student Outcomes:
1. Define sociology and explain the basic insight of sociology.
2. Explain the meaning and the importance of the "sociological imagination."
3. Contrast the views that Comte, Spencer, and Marx held regarding society and
the role of the sociologist.
4. Compare and contrast three major theoretical perspectives of sociology.
5. Identify the contributions of theory and research to sociological knowledge.
6. Describe the logic of cause and effect between variables; state the conditions necessary for
correlation and for causation.
7. Identify the advantages and disadvantages of laboratory and field experiments.
8. Distinguish between a population and a sample and explain the connection
between them; specify ways to ensure that a sample is representative.
9. Describe the relationship between culture and society.
10. Distinguish between instincts, reflexes, drives, and culturally learned behavior.
11. Discuss norms and their importance on society.
12. Define ethnocentrism and discuss its consequences for a culture. Describe
cultural relativism and its appropriate use.
13. Indicate how subcultures and countercultures relate to the dominant culture.
14. Summarize the ways in which culture affects human interaction and the ways humans chang
culture.
15. Define socialization.
16. Describe the ways in which biological pre-dispositions and social influence are intertwined.
17. Discuss the concept of "self" and how it develops.
18. Describe Cooley's three-part theory of the looking glass self.
19. Describe Mead's theory of the formation of the self through symbolic
interaction, role-taking, and the generalized and particular other.
20. Identify the key agents of socialization.
21. List the characteristics of a group that distinguish it.
22. Contrast the features of primary and secondary groups.
23. Identify ways in which individuals conform to groups.
24. List the functions of in-groups and outgroups.
25. Explain the importance of reference groups.
26. Characterize formal organizations.
27. Define deviance as a sociological concept.
28. Discuss the concept of stigma.
29. Identify means of social control and how they work.
30. Characterize Merton's five-part typology of deviance.
31. Explain why mental disorder is classified as a form of deviance.
32. List four functions of deviance.
33. List four dysfunction's of deviance and their effects on society.
34. Define social stratification.
35. Explain the concept of social mobility.
36. Describe how sociologists use socioeconomic status (SES) as a
measurement of social position.
37. Explain how stratification systems are maintained.
38. Discuss social stratification in the United States.
39. Identify the social classes in the United States and the features of each.
40. Specify some of the factors that are correlated with social-class membership.

41. Explain the two ways poverty is defined and indicate which groups in the
United States are most likely to experience poverty.
42. Cite biological evidence in discussing differences between the sexes.
43. Cite psychological evidence in discussing difference between the sexes.
44. Cite cross-cultural evidence in discussing the difference between the sexes.
45. Discuss the implication of America's transformation from an agricultural to an industrial econo
gender roles.
46. Discuss ageism in American society.
47. Describe the field of social gerontology. Assess the situation of the aged in
America today; list three major problems the elderly face.
48. Give a social definition of race and ethnic group.
49. List the important features of minority group. Distinguish between prejudice
and discrimination.
50. Summarize social-science research on stereotypes, authoritarian personality, irrationality,
scapegoating, and social environment as a source of prejudice.
51. Demonstrate the ability to select and apply contemporary forms of technology to solve proble
compile information in the study of Sociology.
52. Write and speak clearly and logically in presentations and essays about topics related to Soc