This course has three general objectives: (1) to introduce you to the
field of sociology; (2) to help you to acquire a broad and deep
understanding of the social forces that influence the world in which
we live; and (3) to equip you with some of the tools that you will
need to prosper in the future, both at IU and in the new global
information economy.

My goal in this course is to help you develop an informed perspective
on contemporary U.S. society.  However, only a small part of the
course will directly address the American experience.  Our approach
to the study of human society will be comparative and historical.
The guiding assumption of the comparative/historical method is that
we can better understand our own society by learning more about other
societies, past and present.  In discussions, readings, group
presentations, and lectures, we will engage a great deal of
information on a broad range of human societies.  As one of the
course requirements, you will also pursue a semester-long study of
another contemporary society.  These educational experiences are
designed to help you to gain both a new understanding of your own
society and a greater appreciation for the world at large.