Welcome to Sociological Theory. This course is intended to provide an overview of the classical social theory of Malthus, Marx, Durkheim, and Weber as well as modern expressions of these perspectives. I will do this through two mechanisms. First, I will provide a summary and critique of one of the four major classical traditions in sociology. Rather than discussing the theory as history, the course will focus upon elements of the perspectives that have proved useful in understanding sociocultural systems. Then, I will provide an overview and critique of the perspective and analysis of two or three contemporary social scientists writing within each tradition. There will be a unit exam after completing each group of theorists. We will begin with Malthus and three of his followers, have an exam, then Marx, Durkheim, and finally Weber. The overarching goal of the course is to provide students with a general understanding of each of the classical sociological traditions and their usefulness in understanding contemporary societies. Through study of contemporary social scientists such as Lenski, Braverman, Merton, and Elias students will truly come to appreciate the breadth and depth of classical social theory as well as its usefulness in understanding contemporary and historical sociocultural systems.

We will be spending about one week on each of the theorists. You will be asked questions over your studies. Some of these questions will be addressed to the class through threaded discussion. Others will be given to you as a guide to your studies. It is important that you answer these questions fully and completely in your notes. The intent of these questions is to help you master the material as well as prepare for the examinations. You will see many of these questions again!

Again, I welcome you and sincerely hope you get the grade you deserve in this course.

Dr. Frank W. Elwell
Professor of Sociology
Dean of Liberal Arts
Rogers State University