Sociology 1101: Introductory Sociology

Instructor: Christopher Butler came to Morris from his hometown of Cleveland, Ohio. He prefers midwestern schools having been graduated by Miami University (B.A. in English and History) and the University of Notre Dame (M.A. in American Studies). His teaching interests are sociology, gender, college writing and sports. His professional writing experience includes three years as a reporter and news director for a public radio affiliate, three years of grant writing, and a year of instructional design.

Course Description: Basic concepts, theories, and methods of sociology; survey of some of the institutional areas in which sociologists specialize.

Fulfills UMM General Education Requirement: category SS (Human Behavior, Social Processes and Institutions)

Sociology is the systematic study of people and human behavior, or, in other words, science with a human face. This course will provide a broad introduction to basic sociological concepts and methods that can enrich our view of the social world. From local and global perspectives, we will examine how social contexts and social forces influence people’s values, beliefs, attitudes, behaviors, and life experiences.

Students will write four essays, take three exams and a final, and will contribute to the course discussion board.