This unit deals with the social construction of the self. It addresses the paradox that, although we are shaped by powerful social forces, we have a sense of ourselves as autonomous individuals. It will show how this sense of individual selfhood is of recent origin, associated with the development of modern society.
We will also look at our familiar world through different lenses and perspectives. We will also explore how individuals confront unfamiliar institutional environments to show that the 'sociological imagination' can help us come to terms with lived experiences such as the transition to university.
Throughout the unit, we will use historical and comparative research in order to question the taken-for-granted assumption that the way we organise our lives is the 'natural' way human beings shape their interactions. We will see how concepts such as 'time', 'space', 'nature' and 'self' are social constructs that change dramatically throughout history.
As this is a first-year unit, we will also spend considerable time developing the foundation skills required for university life. Thus, students will be introduced to key components of sociological research, such as information gathering, critical reading and essay writing. Speakers will discuss the practical challenges involved in generating research and knowledge. Throughout the unit, students will have ample opportunity to discuss issues with lecturers and tutors, both formally and informally.
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