SOCY 339
URBAN SOCIOLOGY
- Catalog Entry
SOCY 339. Urban Sociology
Three hours lecture (3).
Prerequisite: SOCY 110
The first third of this course examines the development and social organization of contemporary urban areas, including both central cities and suburbs. The remainder of the semester will be devoted to the problems and policy choices facing American urban areas in regard to housing, public services, education, transportation, finances, and government organization.
- Detailed Description of Content of Course
The course begins with an historical overview of the process of urbanization with particular emphasis placed on the period since the Industrial Revolution in Europe, the United States, and Japan. Extensive consideration is then given to sociological theories of the consequences of urban life, including the work of 19th century theorists such as Tonnies and Simmel, the " Chicago school," (e.g., Louis Wirth), and the more recent reformulations proposed by Gans and Fischer. Selected "urban problems" in the United States are then examined, including poverty, housing, racial and ethnic minorities, public services, education, transportation, government finances, government organization, and urban politics. The course concludes with a survey of urban development and urban problems in Third World countries.
- Detailed Description of the Conduct of Course
Class time will be devoted primarily to the lecture presentation of the materials in the course.
- Goals and Objectives of the Course
Students will:
1. become familiar with sociological theories of urbanization and its consequences;
2. increase awareness of contemporary urban problems.
- Assessment Measures
There are three examinations (including a final exam), consisting of multiple-choice and short essay questions. A paper, based on an assigned book dealing with a particular aspect of contemporary urban conditions, is also required.
- Other Course Information
None.
- Review and Approval
DATE ACTION REVIEWED
January, 2004 Reviewed Peggy A. Shifflett |