Sociology 253 - Sociology of Sexuality: Institutions, Identities and Cultures
Sociology of Sexuality
Spring
2026
01
4.00
Nancy E. Whittier
M W 10:50 AM - 12:05 PM
Smith College
SOC-253-01-202603
nwhittie@smith.edu
This course examines sexuality from a sociological perspective, focusing on how sexuality is constructed by and structures major social institutions. The course examines the social construction of individual and collective identities, norms and behaviors, discourses, institutional regulation, and the place of sexuality in the state, education, science and other institutions, and social movements. Consideration of gender, race, class, time, and place are integrated throughout. Discussions include the social construction of sexual desire and practice, sexuality and labor, reproduction, science, technology, sexuality and the state, sexuality education, globalization, commodification, and social movements for sexual purity, sexual freedom, and against sexual violence. Prerequisite: SOC 101. Enrollment limited to 35.
[CE] SOC 101