School Of Social Sciences And PsychologyTheories of the SocialWestern Sydney University Unit Code: 102179.1
Discipline: STUDIES IN HUMAN SOCIETY
Student Contribution Band: 1
Level: 7
Credit Points: 10
Assumed Knowledge
Undergraduate degree in the Social Sciences or equivalent.
Equivalent Units
101888 - Theories for Critical Practice, 400585 Theories of the Social
Unit Enrolment Restrictions
Students must be enrolled in a postgraduate course.
About this Unit
This unit examines the notions that humans are intrinsically social beings who are at once products of and producers of their own circumstances. By providing an overview and critical engagement with a wide array of social theories, the unit explores key aspects of human society including structure and agency; knowledge and power relations; culture and identity; class, economy and consumption; self, society and the public sphere; social change and social justice. Students consider the social, political and discursive processes through which theories are made and applied, and how theories may both limit and create possibilities for research and practice. Throughout the unit students will be encouraged to use critical social theory to not only expose and analyse social systems but also to engage in reflection about how theoretical perspectives can inform practices of change.