SOC 202: Development Of Sociological Thought

3 credits

This course is an historical overview of the sociological tradition, from the social philosophers (Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau) to the classics of the 19th century (Tocqueville, Weber, Marx, Durkheim and Simmel), looking at the ways some of the theorists' ideas, theories, and observations can be used to analyze contemporary society.

Distribution Requirement

  • Social Sciences

Learning Goals

At completion of the course, students will be able to: (1) Describe the significant theoretical approaches in Sociology, especially those of Max Weber, Karl Marx, Emile Durkheim, and Georg Simmel; (2) Apply these approaches in the analysis of the structure of society and its institutions; (3) Recognize theoretical frameworks and interpret how they influence underlying assumptions and conclusions in the analysis of social issues; and (4) Conduct critical sociological analysis about historical and contemporary social issues.

*The learning goals displayed here are those for one section of this course as offered in a recent semester, and are provided for the purpose of information only. The exact learning goals for each course section in a specific semester will be stated on the syllabus distributed at the start of the semester, and may differ in wording and emphasis from those shown here.

Sections Offered: Fall 2026

Development Of Sociological Thought
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