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No offerings have been identified for this subject in 2016

SOC217 Fame and Social Control (8)

Abstract

Society is controlled - by the media, big brother, the police and video cameras in shopping centres and open spaces. But sociologists argue that real control is social control which is achieved through compliance and commitment to social values. Non-conformist behaviour is counteracted by various sanctions so that a certain equilibrium in society is maintained. How does this relate to famous people? To analyse power and power relations, this subject will look at people who have recently been in the limelight, at their support systems, the media and at different audiences.

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Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details prior to contacting their course coordinator: SOC217
Where differences exist between the handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject information

Duration Grading System School:
One sessionHD/FLSchool of Humanities and Social Sciences

Assumed Knowledge

SOC101

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
- be able to assess whether or not social control amplifies or diminishes non-conformist behaviour
- be able to analyse, from a sociological point of view, different control mechanisms exerted by society, family, and the media
- be able to demonstrate familiarity with social structure and agency
- have developed a capacity to apply traditional sociological theories to every-day occurrences.

Syllabus

The subject will cover the following topics:
This subject will cover issues such as conformity and adaptability, rebellion and resilience, vulnerability and innovation. We will start with an overview of different sociological explanations for power relations, such as conflict and critical theory, structural functionalism, symbolic interactionism, feminism and postmodernism. These theories will be related to - media moguls: Rupert Murdoch and Kerry Packer - people in public office: Ronald Reagan; Hilary and Bill Clinton; Jacky Kennedy; Diana, Princess of Wales; Princess Mary of Denmark; and Germaine Greer - sport stars: Cathy Freeman; Steve Waugh; Ian Thorpe - celebrities: Paul Robeson; Elvis Presley; Dusty Springfield; The Beatles; The Rolling Stones; Madonna; and Kylie Minogue.

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The information contained in the 2016 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 06 September 2016. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.