SOC301 Policy, Power and Social Action (8)

How do people change society? This subject examines how people create social change within the context of contemporary governance systems. Drawing on sociological theories of social power, change and movements, it explores political and policy structures, discourses and ideologies, and the ways in which people and organisations influence them. Particular attention is paid to social movements as social mechanisms through which people continue to drive social change. Contemporary public and policy issues concerning social justice, democracy, the economy and the environment are examined to illustrate these social processes.

No offerings have been identified for this subject in 2022.

Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Social Work and Arts

Enrolment Restrictions

This subject is not available to students who have completed SOC218.

Subject Relationships

SOC218 shares similar content

Incompatible Subjects

SOC218

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to analyse key sociological theories of power;
  • be able to discuss change processes within contemporary governance contexts;
  • be able to critically evaluate the strategies of social movements;
  • be able to demonstrate a critical understanding of social movements and related theory; and
  • be able to critically analyse current issues in terms of the social forces acting to bring change and their significance to democracy.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • Perspectives on Power
  • Political and Social Action
  • Public Policy
  • Democracy and Social Action

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: June 2022. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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