Module: SOC5103-20 Social Problems, Social Divisions, Social Justice

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Patrick Turner

Module Tutor Contact Details: p.turner3@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module focuses on contemporary social problems: how they are constructed and addressed in a cultural, economic and political context. The definition of social problems and the response from governments, organisations and social movements in turn raises questions about social differences, divisions and social justice. You will explore a range of social problems and the response from state and civil society actors in the form of policies, initiatives, campaigns and protest and consider key questions about social inequality, welfare, rights, freedom and fairness. How are social problems defined and by whom? Are some problems intractable? What is the impact of policies and laws to address social problems on individuals and communities? In what ways do political ideologies, cultural values and/or religious beliefs inform the construction of problems and their solution? To what extent are ameliorative measures fair and just for different social groups? Do intransigent and enduring social problems demonstrate limits of egalitarianism, citizenship and social mobility? Do measures to address social problems extend social control measures or criminalise individuals, groups and behaviours? How far are social problems transnational and does their solution lie in the institutions of global governance? This module aims to encourage you to reflect on these questions and develop your critical judgement and understanding of how society creates both opportunities and obstacles for individuals and different groups of people.

2. Outline syllabus:

The curriculum will be drawn from topics which may include:

• Family breakdown

• Educational failure

• Worklessness, under-employment and the ‘precariat’

• Poverty, debt and austerity

• Culture wars, ‘Social Justice Warriors’ and the ‘Alt-right’

• Cyberculture: harassment, abuse and bullying

• Crime and anti-social behaviour

• Disaffected youth

• Ageing populations

• Addictions, chronic illness, disabilities

• The ‘Mental health epidemic’

• Sustainability, waste and environmental security

• The ‘Housing Crisis’ and homelessness

• Rights, prejudice and discrimination – gender, ‘race’/ethnicity, LGBT

3. Teaching and learning activities:

The module will be delivered through a combination of lectures and seminars. Lectures will introduce the key concepts, theories and empirical research on different social problems and provide information about required readings. Seminars will be a forum for discussion of prepared readings and participation in group work based on AV and reading materials. Guest speakers will provide different perspectives that will enhance understanding of topics considered.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Essay (2,500 words)

• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Group poster presentation (2,500 words equivalent)

• % Weighting: 50%