Classical sociological theory

Third-cycle level | 7.5 credits | Course code: SC30003
VT 2025
Study period: 2025-04-01 - 2025-06-15
LANGUAGE OF INSTRUCTION: The course is given in Swedish but can be given in English if necessary
Application period: 2024-12-10 - 2025-02-21
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Course description

The course has three aims: 1) to provide knowledge about key contributions to sociological theory, defined as ”sociological classics” (i.e. Durkheim, Marx, Weber, Simmel, Tönnies and the Chicago-school);

2) to problematize the ”classics discourse” and to present examples of ”alternative classics”, i. e. scholars/texts (particularly focusing on gender and race/ethnicity) that have been influential without having been awarded the status of ”classics” (e.g. Du Bois, de Beauvoir and Fanon);

3) to provide the students with ability to discuss and evaluate the significance and usefulness of ”the classics” in relation to contemporary sociological theory and empirical research.

The course is held on three occasions (altogether six days). The seminars will he led by the Ph D students, presenting their choice of further reading. At the final seminar the Ph D student examination essays will be presented and discussed.

 

Target group

The course is mandatory for persons admitted to postgraduate studies in sociology at the University of Gothenburg och the University of Lund.

Requirements and Selection

Entry requirements

Qualifying applicants are persons admitted to postgraduate studies at the University of Gothenburg or another university. The course is mandatory for persons admitted to postgraduate studies in sociology at the University of Gothenburg, the University of Lund and the University of Copenhagen who therefore have priority to the course.

Selection

The course is mandatory for persons admitted to postgraduate studies in sociology at the University of Gothenburg and the University of Lund who therefore have priority to the course. Doctoral student at other universities are also welcome to apply.

Educational partnership

University of Lund

Other information

The preliminary dates for the on campus days are: 

7-9 April (Göteborg)

7-8 May (Lund)

10 June (Göteborg)

Course syllabus

SC30003

Reading and reference list

Reading and reference list for the course

Department

Department of Sociology and Work Science

Subject

Social Science

Type of course

Subject area course

Keywords

sociology, Sociologi, theory, classical, teori, klassisk

CONTACTIréne Carlensberg

irene.carlensberg@gu.se