SCLG2608 - Social Construction of Difference

Semester 1, 2012  |  Credit Points: 6

Coordinator: Karl Maton
Phone: +61 2 9351 3902
Email: karl.maton@sydney.edu.au

Description

The focus of this unit of study is on the dynamics of the identification of 'difference' in society, including the processes of stigmatisation and demonisation of 'deviants'. The unit focuses on areas such as the debates surrounding the 'welfare underclass', unruly youth, refugees and asylum seekers, trans-gendered persons, the care of the mentally ill, etc. Significant theoretical debates will be addressed, including 'realism' vs. 'social construction', 'defining deviance down' (Moynihan; Hendershott), the 'Broken Windows' thesis (Wilson and Kelling) and Jock Young's theory of 'Essentialising the Other'.

Assessments

tutorial participation and attendance (10%), 1x1500wd research essay (35%) and 1x2500wd take-home exam (55%)

Textbooks

unit reader will be available through the Copy Centre

Classes

1x2-hr lecture/week, 1x1-hr tutorial/week commencing week 2, or equivalent intensive Winter session

Prerequisites

SCLG1001 and SCLG1002

Prohibitions

SCLG2004, SCLG2523

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