Sociology 397J - ST- Sociology of Aspirations

In this course, students will have a chance to reflect on their own life goals and aspirations, as well as those of others, and consider the role of gender, economic class, race, and culture in shaping these. Topics may include how social forces influence our desired careers and family life, and our visions for an ideal society.

The sociology of aspirations: What do I really want to do when I grow up? is a new course examining the role of social forces in shaping our hopes and dreams. In this course students will have a chance to reflect on their own life goals and aspirations, as well as those of others, and consider the role of gender, economic class, race, and culture in shaping these. For example, in this course we consider how social forces like gender and economic class may influence our career goals and the kind of relationships and family life we seek to create. Beyond our individual lives the class will also consider how social forces may shape our visions for an ideal society and the kinds of societal changes we may wish to help bring about.