BSOC-113: SOCIOLOGICAL THINKERS -II

BSOC-113: Sociological Thinkers – II

Introduction

BSOC-113: Sociological Thinkers – II is an essential course offered by the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) as part of its undergraduate sociology program. This course delves into the profound contributions of various sociological thinkers, offering students a comprehensive understanding of sociological theory and its application. The course is designed to build upon the foundational knowledge acquired in the preceding course, Sociological Thinkers – I, and to further explore the intricate ideas and theories proposed by notable sociologists.

Course Overview

Sociology, as a discipline, is built upon the theories and ideas of several pioneering thinkers. These theorists have provided the intellectual foundation for understanding the complexities of society, culture, and human behavior. BSOC-113 focuses on the works of several key sociological thinkers, each of whom has made significant contributions to the field. By examining their theories, students gain valuable insights into the development of sociological thought and the diverse perspectives that shape our understanding of social phenomena.

Key Sociological Thinkers Covered

Emile Durkheim

Emile Durkheim, often regarded as one of the founding fathers of sociology, is a central figure in this course. Durkheim’s work on social solidarity, collective conscience, and the division of labor has been instrumental in shaping modern sociological thought. Students will explore his seminal works, such as “The Division of Labor in Society” and “The Elementary Forms of Religious Life,” and understand how Durkheim’s ideas contribute to the analysis of social cohesion and the functioning of societies.

Max Weber

Max Weber’s comprehensive approach to sociology is another focal point of this course. Weber’s theories on bureaucracy, rationalization, and the Protestant ethic provide a deep understanding of the complexities of modern societies. The course examines Weber’s influential works, including “The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism” and “Economy and Society,” and discusses his contributions to the study of social action, authority, and the process of rationalization in the modern world.

Karl Marx

Karl Marx’s revolutionary ideas about class struggle, capitalism, and historical materialism are fundamental to the study of sociology. In BSOC-113, students will delve into Marx’s critical analysis of capitalism, as presented in works like “The Communist Manifesto” and “Das Kapital.” The course explores Marx’s concept of class conflict, the dynamics of economic systems, and his vision of a classless society, providing students with a critical perspective on social inequalities and power structures.

George Herbert Mead

George Herbert Mead’s contributions to symbolic interactionism and the development of the self are essential components of this course. Mead’s theories on the social construction of the self, the role of language, and the significance of social interactions are explored through his major works, such as “Mind, Self, and Society.” Students will gain an understanding of how individual identities are shaped through social interactions and the importance of symbols in the creation of meaning within societies.

Talcott Parsons

Talcott Parsons’ structural-functionalism offers a macro-level analysis of social systems and their interdependent parts. In BSOC-113, students will examine Parsons’ key concepts, such as the AGIL framework (Adaptation, Goal attainment, Integration, and Latency), and his views on social order and stability. The course discusses Parsons’ contributions to understanding how social institutions function to maintain societal equilibrium and the mechanisms through which social change occurs.

Course Objectives

BSOC-113 aims to achieve several key objectives:

1. Understanding Key Theories: Provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the theories proposed by influential sociological thinkers.
2. Critical Analysis: Develop students’ ability to critically analyze and evaluate sociological theories and their applicability to contemporary social issues.
3. Historical Context: Offer insights into the historical and intellectual context in which these sociological theories emerged.
4. Comparative Perspectives: Encourage comparative analysis of different sociological theories to highlight their strengths, limitations, and relevance.
5. Application of Theories: Equip students with the skills to apply sociological theories to real-world social phenomena and conduct sociological research.

Teaching Methodology

The course employs a variety of teaching methodologies to facilitate effective learning:

1. Lectures and Discussions: Engaging lectures and interactive discussions form the core of the teaching approach, encouraging active participation and deeper understanding.
2. Reading Assignments: Students are assigned readings from primary texts and critical essays to familiarize themselves with the original works of sociological thinkers.
3. Case Studies: Real-world case studies are used to illustrate the practical application of sociological theories and to encourage critical thinking.
4. Group Projects: Collaborative projects allow students to explore sociological concepts in a group setting, fostering teamwork and collective learning.
5. Written Assignments: Essays and research papers help students articulate their understanding of sociological theories and develop their analytical writing skills.

Evaluation and Assessment

The evaluation process in BSOC-113 includes a combination of formative and summative assessments:

1. Assignments: Regular written assignments and essays to assess students’ grasp of the course material and their analytical abilities.
2. Presentations: Oral presentations on specific sociological thinkers or theories to evaluate students’ communication skills and depth of understanding.
3. Midterm Exams: Periodic exams to test students’ knowledge and comprehension of the core concepts covered in the course.
4. Final Examination: A comprehensive final exam that assesses the overall understanding and integration of the sociological theories discussed throughout the course.

Conclusion

BSOC-113: Sociological Thinkers – II is a vital course that deepens students’ understanding of sociological theory and its application. By exploring the ideas of pioneering sociologists like Durkheim, Weber, Marx, Mead, and Parsons, students gain valuable insights into the complexities of society and the diverse perspectives that shape sociological thought. This course not only equips students with a solid theoretical foundation but also prepares them to critically analyze and address contemporary social issues through the lens of sociology.