SOCb2531 Sociology of identity

Faculty of Social Studies
Spring 2025
Extent and Intensity
1/1/0. 5 credit(s). Type of Completion: zk (examination).
In-person direct teaching
Teacher(s)
Olga Zhmurko, M.A. (lecturer)
Guaranteed by
Olga Zhmurko, M.A.
Department of Sociology – Faculty of Social Studies
Contact Person: Ing. Soňa Enenkelová
Supplier department: Department of Sociology – Faculty of Social Studies
Timetable
Thu 12:00–13:40 U34
Prerequisites
This course does not have any formal prerequisites; however, a foundational understanding of sociological theories and basic research methods will be beneficial. Students from various disciplines are welcome, as discussions will incorporate interdisciplinary perspectives. The ability to critically engage with readings and participate in discussions is essential for success in this course.
Course Enrolment Limitations
The course is also offered to the students of the fields other than those the course is directly associated with.
The capacity limit for the course is 20 student(s).
Current registration and enrolment status: enrolled: 20/20, only registered: 4/20, only registered with preference (fields directly associated with the programme): 1/20
fields of study / plans the course is directly associated with
Course objectives
This course aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of identity from a sociological perspective. By examining the historical development of identity studies, key theories, and interdisciplinary approaches, students will gain insights into how identity is socially constructed and influenced by factors such as gender, ethnicity, class, and culture. The course will encourage critical thinking, research skills, and analytical engagement with contemporary identity debates.
Learning outcomes
Learning Outcomes. By the end of the course, students will be able to: - Critically analyze identity as a social construct within sociological discourse. - Compare and evaluate different theoretical approaches to identity. - Identify and discuss the role of social, cultural, and institutional factors in identity formation. - Apply sociological concepts to real-world identity issues and case studies. - Conduct and interpret research on identity, including qualitative methods such as interviews and discourse analysis. - Engage in informed discussions on contemporary identity-related topics, demonstrating analytical and critical thinking skills.
Syllabus
  • Throughout the semester, students will explore key topics, including: The historical evolution of identity studies in sociology Theories of individual and collective identity The intersection of gender, ethnicity, and class in identity formation Symbolic and visible dimensions of identity Identity in organizations and professional communities The role of ideology and cultural narratives in shaping identities Practical applications of identity research methodologies The course will combine lectures, discussions, case studies, and interactive assignments to deepen students' understanding of identity within sociological frameworks.
Literature
    required literature
  • R. Jenkins. Identity matters. Social Identity, 3rd Edition, Routledge, 2004, pp. 1 -15
  • Karen A. Cerulo. Identity Construction: New Issues, New Directions. Annu. Rev. Sociol. 1997. 23: pages 385–409
  • BOURDIEU, Pierre. Language and symbolic power. Edited by John B. Thompson. Cambridge, Mass.: Harvard University Press, 1991, ix, 302. ISBN 0674510410. info
  • MEAD, George Herbert. Mind, self, and society : from the standpoint of a social behaviorist. Edited by Charles W. Morris. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1967, xxxviii, 4. ISBN 0226516687. info
  • BUTLER, Judith. Gender trouble : feminism and the subversion of identity. New York: Routledge, 1999, xxxiii, 22. ISBN 0415924995. info
  • Bernadette Nadya Jaworsky. ‘It's (not) who we are’: Representing the nation in US and Canadian newspaper articles about refugees entering the country. Nations and Nationalism. 2021; 27: 513–529.
  • The Oxford Handbook of Identities in Organizations. 2020.
    recommended literature
  • Dr. Pragya Agarwal Sway: Unravelling Unconscious Bias. Bloombery, 2020, pp. 54 – 66.
  • C.G. Jung “The love problem of a student”. Civilization in Transition. Volume 10 Collected Works of C. G. Jung, Edited by: Gerhard Adler and R. F.C. Hull. Princeton University Press, 1970., pp. 97 – 112.
    not specified
  • BERGER, Peter L. and Thomas LUCKMANN. The social construction of reality : a treatise in the sociology of knowledge. 1st pub. London: Penguin Press, 1967, 249 s. ISBN 0140135480. info
Teaching methods
The teaching methods used in this course involve weekly lecture meetings, reading of literature, homework exercises and formal writing assignment.The language of instructions is English.
Assessment methods
1) READING, RESEARCH QUESTIONS AND REFLECTION DISCUSSIONS (FROM WEEKLY LITERATURE OR WEEKLY PRACTICE TASKS): All of the classes are complemented by a list of literature (obligatory and sometimes supplementary). students can also receive recommendations to attend a cultural or social event or watch a movie related to the topic of the lecture. On a weekly basis, students are expected to complete one of the following tasks (there is a different task for each week in the interactive syllabus). The weekly task is graded for 4 points each. 1) an audio or video record of a brief discussion among students (in a group of up to 3 people) on the material read and studied prior the lecture. No longer than 20 minutes. The audio/video file should contain the names of the students who participated in the discussion in the title. 2) prepare a 200-word discussion paper based on the readings. The document should contain your critical view of the readings and not duplicate (retell) the content of the readings. The document should be of a discussion nature. For example, what do you agree with, what questions did the literature or topic prompt you to ask, how can the issue raised by the author be considered today, does the content of the reading correlate with what we (you) observe in our social reality? The completed tasks should be uploaded to the Homework Vault not later than 9.00 AM the day before the class. This semester – every Wednesday. 2) CLASS DISCUSSION FACILITATION AND PARTICIPATION: On a weekly basis, at least 2 students will be assigned as discussion facilitators according to the readings. Discussion facilitation is a mandatory assignment during the semester and is worth 10 points. Participation in each discussion - active discussion is encouraged with an additional 2 points for each participant. In order to record these points, each student who participated in the discussion during the class must come to the teacher after the end of the class and record their participation so that the teacher can mark it during the evaluation. 3) PRACTICAL ASSIGNMENT – the conduction of the in-depth interview on the identity issue – for better practicing and understanding the ways of studying identity - 10 points. 4) FINAL EXAM: In-class. At the end of the semester, students will receive a written and oral assignment, the completion of which will prove that they have passed the course – 30 points. Exam will include writing the answers to 3 open questions on the topic of the course. The detailed instruction will be provided during the course. Grading: The final grade consists of: 1) Weekly reading, home tasks and fieldworks (up to 50%) 2) Group assignment – discussion facilitation (10%) 3) Practical assignments during the course (10%) 4) final exam (30%) based on compulsory readings and practical assignment.
Language of instruction
English
Further Comments
Study Materials
The course can also be completed outside the examination period.
The course is taught annually.
The course is also listed under the following terms Autumn 2023, Spring 2024, Autumn 2024.
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