Sociology 473 (Sociological Theory) 2002

Sociology 473                                        Jim Thomas
Section 2, Th:  2 - 3:15                             Office: 807 Zulauf
Section 3: T, Th: 11-12:15                           Phone: 753-6436
Homepage: http://venus.soci.niu.edu/~jthomas/class/473/473.html
email: jthomas@sun.soci.niu.edu  

The course will summarize recent  trends in contemporary theory by
looking at how they emerged out of what we call "classical theory."
We will focus most heavily on recent developments in interpretive sociology, 
Marxism, critical theory, and post-modernism.  We will do this by using
a primary text to guide us through more recent contemporary sources.

TEXTS:
    Wallace and Wolf: Contemporary Sociological Theory (5th edition)
    Class Handouts
    Current events (news)
    Net Resources
    Readings (as assigned)

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

 --One Final Exam (150 points each)
 --Class participation and involvement (50 points)
 --four short papers (50 points each)
 -- Webboard discussion group(100 points)
 --Pop quizzes (only the top 5 scores will count)
 --EXTRA CREDIT will be available
  _____________________
 TOTAL POINTS: 500

(NOTE: WITH INSTRUCTOR PERMISSION, YOU MAY REPLACE YOUR FINAL EXAM
WITH A FINAL TERM PAPER, THE TOPIC TO BE NEGOTIATED WITH THE INSTRUCTOR)

Grading will be done on a 90/80/70/60/ scale.

NOTE: YOU MUST KEEP UP ON READINGS or it will be a difficult class.
If you cannot attend class, you are responsible for knowing what occured
in your absence. Sometimes it may be necessary to chance assignments
or assignment dates. These will be announced in class and electronically.
You are responsible for being aware of the changes.

NOTE: Both sections are identical. If you miss one class, you should
try to sit in on the other. However, the exams may not be identical,
so it is best to make sure you show up for your assigned section.

Be sure to keep up on ASSIGNMENTS!

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