SOC 623 Social Change and Comparative Development
The concept of social change and development is discussed throughout this course. We shall look into how various components of society are rearranged, reorganized, and reconfigured in a variety of cultures, including - among others - those of the U.S., China, Brazil, India, the former U.S.S.R., Germany, South Africa, Nigeria, Afghanistan, and Iran. Topics include breakdown of rural life and growth of cities, impact of technology and the transformation of work, the undermining of authority systems, moral codes, and established values; the stimulation of discontent, cultivation of new tastes and aspirations; formation of new standards of living; changes in family structure, class structure, religion, education, and industry.