What is society? What is the role of the individual in society? How does the way society is organized affect the behaviors and beliefs of people who live in it? How can we change our societies? This course introduces students to the field of sociology. By surveying social theory as well as empirical studies, students acquire what C. Wright Mills calls the "sociological imagination": the ability to think beyond our personal lives and to connect the experiences of individuals with large social structures. Readings include prominent empirical investigations into family dynamics, class...

The relation between sex equality under law and sex and gender inequality in society is interrogated in theory and practice in the context of relevant social science, history, and international and comparative law. Mainstream equality doctrine is probed on its own terms and through an alternative. Cases largely on U.S. law focusing on concrete issues--including work, family, rape, sexual harassment, lesbian and gay rights, abortion, prostitution, pornography--structure the inquiry. Race, economic class, and transgender issues are mainstreamed. The purpose of the course is to understand,...

An intensive examination of the legal, social, and political issues raised by the status and treatment of transgender persons, primarily but not exclusively in the United States. Sex, gender, sexuality, identity, and equality are interrogated. Issues and cases on discrimination and other relevant legal concepts arising in contexts of trans rights including health care, employment, sexual and other assault, housing, marriage, parenting, military, imprisonment, education, and athletics, with an optional section on immigration, are focused, with particular attention to sex and gender...