166-130 Globalisation, the Social & Identity

Formerly available as 166-080. Students who have completed 166-080 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

This subject introduces students to sociology, using self-identity as a lens to examine emerging social patterns linked to globalisation. The subject explores new forms of consumption; network as social structure; the transformation of technology from a tool to an environment; sport, religion and the symbolic; subcultures; the intimate family; the nature of contemporary social problems such as drug use; emerging forms of conflict associated with globalisation. The subject is organised around key concepts of risk, identity, uncertainty, individualisation, network society, and power. The subject is 'decentred', exploring globalisation and social life in both Western and 'non-Western' societies, in particular Asia.

Written work totalling 4000 words.

• K McDonald, Pressing Questions: Explorations in Sociology. Issue 3, Pearson 2002.