Singapore University of Social Sciences

Urban Sociology

Urban Sociology (SOC356)

Synopsis

SOC356 Urban Sociology studies the significance of cities in the social, economic, and political lives of contemporary societies. It introduces students to the discipline of urban sociology to facilitate their examination of the city through the perspectives of various social theorists and urban scholars. In doing so, this class combines theoretical materials with students’ experiences in living in Singapore as one of Asia’s global cities. In addition to critically examining existing theories that are largely originated from Europe and the United States, this course will address urban political economy and globalisation, international migration and urban diversity, the city as a locus of different forms of social inequalities, various urban social problems, and sustainable development and the future of the city.

Level: 3
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: Every July

Topics

  • Introduction
  • Studying the city
  • Theoretical perspectives on the city (1)
  • Theoretical perspectives on the city (2)
  • Urban political economy (1)
  • Urban political economy (2)
  • The global city, international migration, and citizenship
  • Urban diversity and global cities
  • Social inequality and urban problems (1)
  • Social inequality and urban problems (2)
  • Reinventing urban life (1)
  • Reinventing urban life (2)

Learning Outcome

  • Discuss cultural, economic, political, and social forces in urban development and human
  • Examine contemporary issues and interests in Southeast Asian cities
  • Analyse socio-cultural and political patterns through the urban fabric
  • Apply theories, knowledge and models to analyse real-world urban settings, spaces and
  • Evaluate different models of the city
  • Develop critical research skills for a case analysis
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