Power, Privilege and Diversity
Module code: SY1021
Engagement with sociology is often rooted in concern about inequality and the deprived circumstances in which many people live. But inequality extends well beyond people’s economic situations. A related concept that helps us understand inequality is: power. But what does power mean? What does 'having' power mean? A common notion is that one who is powerful can force someone else to do what one wants. That’s not unimportant – but it is a simplistic understanding of power.
So, you'll consider how people with power work to influence what other people think – and even what they want. Ideology is a core focus; this concept helps us understand why some people end up wanting things that go against their own interests.
Topics covered
- Wealth
- Privilege
- Mobility
- Work
- Education
- Happiness
- Meritocracy
- Power as concept
- Micro-structures of power
- Gender
- Global inequality
- Immigration
- Diversity
- Democracy
- The 'establishment'