SOC 120

An introduction to "social problems." Social problems are matters of public concern and analysis, for which various groups and actors in society offer proposed solutions. The course examines who gets to define social problems, why some problems become matters of greater concern than others, and how wealth, power,and status shape the framing of social problems and proposed solutions. The course focuses on U.S. society, but may involve analysis that situates the United States in a larger global context.Central themes and questions in Sociology, including the tension between structure and agency, the nature and role of social movements, and the significance of race, gender, class, and sexuality, will guide examinations of particular case studies ofcontemporary issues, such as economic and racial inequality; health care; climate change and environmental racism; and mass incarceration.