Sociology 278: Social Movements and Social Change

This course provides an introduction to the sociological study of collective action and social change. The causes, trajectories, and outcomes of social movements will be analyzed from a macro-, meso-, and microsociological perspective. The theoretical models presented stress political processes and organizational dynamics as well as the intersections of politics, culture, and identity. Case studies will be drawn primarily from liberal democratic societies. Course evaluation will be based on participation, a course term paper, a midterm, and final exam. This course is open to all students but previous coursework in sociology or a related field is strongly advised.