Academic Catalog

Sociology (SOC)

SOC-125  
Marriage, Family, and Alternative Lifestyles  3 UNITS  
3.0 hours lecture  
An introduction to the sociological analysis of families, marriages and intimate relationships. Family life and intimate relationships in contemporary American society are examined from the perspectives of different ethnic and racial groups with a focus on the intersectionality of race, class, gender and sexuality. Emphasis is placed on the analysis of the family's relationship to economic structures, political institutions and belief systems in different socio-cultural and historical contexts. Topics include: history of the family, family diversity and inequality, socialization, sexuality, child and intimate partner violence and abuse, courtship, interracial friendships and romantic relationships, singlehood, marriage, communication patterns, parenting, adoption, divorce, remarriage, stepfamilies, widowhood, aging, and the future of the family. (C-ID SOCI 130)(CSU/UC)(AA/AS-4, CSU-D,E, IGETC-4, Cal-GETC-4)
SOC-130  
Contemporary Social Problems  3 UNITS  
3.0 hours lecture  
A study of contemporary American and global social problems, with emphasis on the sociological theories and scientific research methods. Topics include poverty, unemployment, global economic inequality, racism, gender inequality, health care issues, crime, war, violence, terrorism, environmental degradation and the concentration of political and economic power. A critical evaluation of policies and programs for social betterment is also presented. (C-ID SOCI 115) (CSU/UC) (AA/AS-4, CSU-D, IGETC-4, Cal-GETC-4)
SOC-135  
Wealth, Poverty, and Inequality  3 UNITS  
3.0 hours lecture  
An introduction to the sociological study of social and economic inequalities, including the distribution of wealth, income, political power, status, and prestige in the United States. The course examines the American social class structure and investigates the causes and consequences of growing economic inequality in the US. Social class in America is examined as inextricably bound up with gender and race. Students will analyze how inequalities are generated, how they are maintained and institutionalized, as well as assess several strategies for reducing or eradicating poverty and inequality. (CSU)
SOC-140  
Sex and Gender Across Cultures  3 UNITS  
3.0 hours lecture  
An introduction to the sociological analysis of sex, gender and sexual orientation in a variety of socio-economic and cultural contexts. The course examines the impact sex, gender and sexual orientation have on the lives of men and women from different cultures in the areas of work, ethnicity, kinship, sexuality, politics, religion, health, arts, sports and communication. Gender and sexual relations in the contemporary USA are examined from the perspectives of different ethnic and racial groups. (C-ID SOCI 140) (CSU/UC) (AA/AS-4, CSU-D, IGETC-4, Cal-GETC-4)
SOC-150  
Latinx Communities in the United States  3 UNITS  
3.0 hours lecture  
An introduction to Latina/Latino Studies through a sociological examination of Latinx communities in the United States. Topics include the racialization process of Latinx communities in the U.S. and the role colonization, imperialism, white supremacy, eurocentrism, decolonization and liberation struggles played in the identity formation and social experiences of Latinx people. The course examines current family structure, gender roles and sexuality; religion; economics; political participation; institutional racism; U.S./Mexico border issues, immigration policy; and education. Focus is on the intersectionality of race/ethnicity with other forms of systemic inequalities. Emphasis is placed on social movements geared toward anti-racism, resistance, and struggle for social justice by Latinx communities. Also listed as ETHN 150. Not open to students with credit in ETHN 150. (CSU/UC) (AA/AS-4, CSU-D, IGETC-4, Cal-GETC-4)
SOC-170  
Mexico: Cultures and Society  3 UNITS  
3.0 hours lecture  
A sociological study of the cultures and society of contemporary Mexico. Themes to be covered include: indigenous communities, social classes and social class conflicts in contemporary Mexico, the economy, the relationship between food and culture, political parties, education, religious traditions, the criminal justice system, race and ethnic diversity, gender relations, the family, the healthcare system, urban and rural views of the nation, the borderlands, the arts, sports and the search for a Mexican national identity. The course examines the legacies of colonialism and dependency, the process of modernization, Mexico in the World Systems, the disparate impact of globalization and transnational migration on communities and individuals across the different regions of Mexico. (CSU)
SOC-180  
Racism and Antiracism  3 UNITS  
3.0 hours lecture  
A sociological analysis of racism in American society and the world, with an examination of the practices and social movements that challenge institutionalized racism. Students will develop a critical understanding of the causes and consequences of racial inequality with a focus on segregation, wealth construction and concentrated poverty. Topics include how race shapes political representation and voting rights, policing and incarceration, and access to quality education, health care, healthy environments, and employment. Racism in America is examined in a global context and with international perspectives. This course is intended for students majoring in sociology or those interested in race and ethnicity. (CSU)
SOC-190  
Sociology of Health and Healthcare  3 UNITS  
3.0 hours lecture  
An introduction to the sociological study of health, illness, and healthcare. The course examines the relationship between social forces and health, the cultural meanings associated with health and illness, and the social behavior of health care professionals and patients. Students will analyze the political and economic factors influencing health care and the structure of the social institutions that constitute the health care industry. In addition, race, gender, age, social class, sexual orientation, and disability are focal points of analysis throughout this course. This course is designed for sociology majors, those going into the health professions, and/or those interested in better understanding health and illness as social experiences. (CSU)