Sociology 225 - Prisons, Schls, Milit

This course examines U.S. prisons, schools, and the military as institutions of social reproduction, in historical and comparative perspective. This lens allows for exploration of broad questions regarding the role of the state in society and persistent contradictions of democracy and opportunity vs. coercion and constraint. Specific questions on which the course centers are: How do social inequalities—including, for example, inequalities based on race, ethnicity, citizenship, class, and gender—condition the relationship between individuals, institutions, the market, and the state? How does privatization affect the mission, activity, and future of these institutions? What role do prisons, schools, and the military play in reproducing social inequality on the national and international stage? Readings will consist of sociological perspectives on such questions as well as historical accounts documenting contests over these institutions and their functions.

Limited to 25 students. Fall semester. Professor Holleman.