Social Relationships and Responsibility - Theme: POWER
CRN
Course Number
Credits
Course Description
Course Goals
This course is an introduction to modern social theory focusing on the theme of POWER. By exploring the concept/resource of power, we will learn the various definitions of power, the theories concerning the sources of power, its application and the people who benefit and suffer because of power. We will also explore how the so-called “powerless” survive and even challenge the powerful. Unwittingly, you will become more familiar with and competent in critically reading texts, ideas, and competing theories. You will also learn to evaluate and interpret the experiences and writings of Marx, Butler, Rich, Davis and others within the context of theories concerning economic materialism, biological determinism and Foucaldian theory.
Competencies gained
Critical reading skills; critical writing skills; the ability to compare and contrast competing theories and ideas.
Prerequisites
Admission to Fairhaven College
Materials Fee
Required Texts
Texts
There are no texts to purchase. Everything is either on-line through Canvas, or through established websites – note you can access them through the hyperlinks provided on the syllabus. If you cannot access them through the hyperlink, then type in the information into “Google” and find it.
Credit/Evaluation
Assignments
- All readings must be completed on the date it is listed on the syllabus. You must be prepared to discuss the readings in class. You must bring the texts to class, or have taken extensive notes on the readings.
- You are required to write 3 short papers and 1 longer paper (4-pages).
- Short papers: These are modified annotated bibliographies. They will be 4-6 sentences long per individual article and/or chapters.
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- Longer paper: -The longer paper, you will be writing on any one of the “Lived Experiences” readings and use at least three (3) theories to analyze it.
Student led classes. Each student will help lead the discussion of the readings due for that day. Students will work in groups and will lead the discussion for 1 1/2 -2 hours.