Utah State UniversityDepartment of Sociology, Social Work and Anthropology

SOC 3010, Section 01, Social Inequality, Fall 2017, CRN 42757Monday/Wednesday/Friday, 01:30pm-02:20 pm, LIB 411

Professor: Mehmet Soyer, Ph.D.E-mail: mehmet.soyer@usu.eduOffice: 224COffice hours: TR 1:30-3:00 or by appointment.Website: memetsoyer.wordpress.com COURSE DESCRIPTIONIt is designed to teach you how to look at the various levels of inequality around you critically, analytically, globally and within a historical perspective. Social inequality is not a straightforward issue of economic or social status. It is best understood by applying theories and constructs from many different disciplines. This course explores both current and historical frameworks for understanding social inequity. It also examines theories and research concerning how race, class, and gender intersect in the lives of societal members.

EXEMPLARY OBJECTIVES1. Understanding the basic theories and concepts pertaining to social

inequality.2. Understanding about the causes and consequences of social

inequality3. Think critically about points of view and evidence pertaining to

social inequality4. Learning to apply sociological principles, concepts, theories, and

evidence in the examination of social inequality

STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES1. To recognize how sociologists, define the concept of social

stratification and the role ideology plays in supporting any system of social stratification.

2. To analyze the effects of historical, social, political, economic, cultural, and global forces on the creation and perpetuation of social stratification.

3. To recognize the continuing importance of ascriptive factors – i.e. ancestry, race and ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, etc. – in determining an individual's class (income or wealth) placement in the United States and globally.

4. To define the distinction between absolute and relative definitions of poverty.

5. To recognize the role of multiculturalism and diversity in the U.S. and globally.

REQUIRED READINGS Textbook: Social Inequality: Forms, Causes, and Consequences, 9th Edition by Hurst et. al. (Routledge, 2017) ISBN 9781138688544 (PREVIOUS EDITION IS ACCEPTABLE).

ASSIGNMENTS

1. Social Café (10 Points)Tell us a little about yourself! Be sure to include your major, your class (sophomore, junior, etc.) Anything else your heart desires. Your first assigned is to take a minute to introduce yourselves to the class in your "SOCI Café".

2. Weekly Discussion Forum (15 X 15 points = 225 points)You are required to complete the readings assigned for the week prior to making your contribution to the discussion. Every week there will be a required reading assignment from the textbook and other sources.You are required to contribute:

I. One substantive post under any one thread in the forum. Your substantive post must be at least 150 words in length. It must be thoughtful and show a clear understanding of the topic being discussed. If you are citing the readings you must mention the author and page numbers. The goal of the substantial post is to draw your classmates into a discussion. It is okay to voice your personal opinions but keep in mind that it is equally important to engage with the scholarly materials that will be presented to you. In other words, just because you feel strongly opposed to something in the text, you are not exempt from critically reflecting on it. You don’t have to agree with everything that you read but make sure to familiarize yourself with the divergent viewpoints on any topic. Due by midnight on Wednesdays.

II. A minimum of one response post under any thread in the forum, where you will respond to one classmate’s post. The response post must be at least 100 words in length. Before you respond read your classmate’s post carefully and “listen” to what your classmate is saying. When we listen respectfully we can respond thoughtfully, challenging the ideas not the speaker. Try to build on your classmate’s ideas, learn, and even challenge your own. Due by midnight on Sundays. Extra posts will not earn any extra points, but we will make a note of your contributions and keep them in mind while tallying your score at the end of the semester.

3. Autobiographical Essay (150 points)You are required to submit an autobiographic essay that recounts your changing perceptions of, and your experiences with, Class/Race/Gender/Religion other than your own. Write an autobiographical essay about your recollections and experiences with that group.Your essay should include at least the following information:

I. Background information (e.g., your race/ethnicity, family, community, schools attended).

II. Your earliest knowledge (including stereotypes) of the group that you are writing about from your family, friends, books, the mass media, or other sources before your interaction with members of that group.

III. Your first experience with the group that you are writing about.IV. Changes in your perceptions of the group over time and factors

that caused the changes;V. Your present feelings about this group and your ability to

interact with it.The paper should be 4-5 pages long, double-spaced, 12-inch font, Times New Roman or Ariel. It should have a title. You should divide the essay into a few sections and add subheadings to the sections. Using “first person” narrative is appropriate. You must include a reference page.Grading Rubric: The paper will be graded in terms of (1) how well it covers the foregoing information, (2) whether it properly uses sociological concepts and perspectives; (3) how well it is organized and written, and (4) other miscellaneous criteria (e.g., length, typing, spacing, time of submission).Submit in the “Autobiographical Essay” folder as a Word document. A late paper will be significantly marked down, albeit accepted.

4. Reflection Notes (4 X 50 points = 200 points)You are required to submit four “Video Reflection” papers. In your “Reflection Notes” you will reflect on a specific reading and Video.

Each “Reflection Notes” paper must be a minimum of 350-400 words in length. In your paper:1 You will discuss the main argument or theme of the Video

(summarize in your own words). Do not summarize the whole Video. 2. You will then reflect on it. While reflecting think about a) If the Video has introduced new concepts or theories, were they useful? b) If there are ideas that challenged your thinking, what were they, and in what ways were they challenging? c) Did the video make you uncomfortable? Why? d) Did you learn anything new? e) What is this Video’s contribution in terms of theory or how does it enhance our understanding of social inequality in the U.S.?

5. Exams (2X100=200 points)The exams will be based on readings, class discussions, and weekly summaries posted by the instructor, and recommended videos. You are expected to keep up with the assigned readings. You will be given one week’s time to complete the exams. No make-up exam will be given, except in the case of an emergency or illness (written proof required). More instructions will be provided with the exams.

6. Quizzes (15*10= 150 Point)The quizzes are provided as part of your grade for each week. They are a good resource by which you can judge how well you have understood the material.

7. Extra Credits You can earn up to 25 extra points in this class. You can attend conference, panel, or seminar. You need to write one page reflection for each conference, panel, or seminar (5 points for each occasion).

Summary of Course Requirements Points

1. Introduction 10 points

2. Class Participation 65 points

3. Autobiographical Essay 150 points

4. Video Reflection (4 X 50)

200 points

5. Exams (2X100=200) 200 points

6. Quizes (15X10=150) 150 points

7. Discussion (15X15= 225) 225 points

8. Extra Credits (25) 25 points

9. Total 1000+25 Extra

CLASS COMMUNICATIONPlease allow me 24 hours to respond to email but follow the email guidelines explained at the beginning of this syllabus. Email is the best way to contact me at mehmet.soyer@usu.edu and please include “SOCIAL INEQUALITY” in the email's subject line and include “TIME-SENSITIVE” if your email is indeed the case. Please stop by my office hours or email me for an appointment.

GRADE SCHEMEThe following grading standards will be used in this class:

Grade Range

A 100 % to 93.0%

A- < 93.0 % to 90.0%

B+ < 90.0 % to 87.0%

B < 87.0 % to 83.0%

B- < 83.0 % to 80.0%

C+ < 80.0 % to 77.0%

C < 77.0 % to 73.0%

C- < 73.0 % to 70.0%

D+ < 70.0 % to 67.0%

D < 67.0 % to 60.0%

F < 60.0 % to 0.0%

STUDENT SUPPORTTechnical SupportIf you experience technical difficulties with this, or any other USU course, you may click on the folder "Resources" icon in the blue bar to the left of the screen, then click on the IT Service Desk link. You will be redirected to the USU Information Technology page. Click on the "Service Desk" link to see their contact information.Academic SupportFor academic support (information about tutoring, study tips, and preparing for and taking tests) click on the folder "Resources" icon in the blue bar to the left of the screen, then click on the "Academic Success Center" link. UNIVERSITY POLICIESAcademic Freedom and Professional ResponsibilitiesAcademic freedom is the right to teach, study, discuss, investigate, discover, create, and publish freely. Academic freedom protects the rights of faculty members in teaching and of students in learning. Freedom in research is fundamental to the advancement of truth. Faculty members are entitled to full freedom in teaching, research, and creative activities, subject to the limitations imposed by professional responsibility. Faculty Code Policy #403 further defines academic freedom and professional responsibilities.

Academic Integrity – "The Honor System"Each student has the right and duty to pursue his or her academic experience free of dishonesty. The Honor System is designed to establish the higher level of conduct expected and required of all Utah State University students.The Honor Pledge: To enhance the learning environment at Utah State University and to develop student academic integrity, each student agrees to the following Honor Pledge: "I pledge, on my honor, to conduct myself with the foremost level of academic integrity."A student who lives by the Honor Pledge is a student who does more than not cheat, falsify, or plagiarize. A student who lives by the Honor Pledge:• Espouses academic integrity as an underlying and essential

principle of the Utah State University community;• Understands that each act of academic dishonesty devalues every

degree that is awarded by this institution; and• Is a welcomed and valued member of Utah State University.Academic DishonestyThe instructor of this course will take appropriate actions in response to Academic Dishonesty, as defined the University’s Student Code. Acts of academic dishonesty include but are not limited to:• Cheating: using, attempting to use, or providing others with any

unauthorized assistance in taking quizzes, tests, examinations, or in any other academic exercise or activity. Unauthorized assistance includes:

◦ Working in a group when the instructor has designated that the quiz, test, examination, or any other academic exercise or activity be done “individually;”

◦ Depending on the aid of sources beyond those authorized by the instructor in writing papers, preparing reports, solving problems, or carrying out other assignments;

◦ Substituting for another student, or permitting another student to substitute for oneself, in taking an examination or preparing academic work;

◦ Acquiring tests or other academic material belonging to a faculty member, staff member, or another student without express permission;

◦ Continuing to write after time has been called on a quiz, test, examination, or any other academic exercise or activity;

◦ Submitting substantially the same work for credit in more than one class, except with prior approval of the instructor; or engaging in any form of research fraud.

• Falsification: altering or fabricating any information or citation in an academic exercise or activity.

• Plagiarism: representing, by paraphrase or direct quotation, the

published or unpublished work of another person as one‘s own in any academic exercise or activity without full and clear acknowledgment. It also includes using materials prepared by another person or by an agency engaged in the sale of term papers or other academic materials.

Sexual HarassmentSexual harassment is defined by the Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Commission as any "unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature." If you feel you are a victim of sexual harassment, you may talk to or file a complaint with the Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Office located in Old Main, Room 161, or call the AA/EEO Office at (435) 797-1266.Withdrawal Policy and "I" Grade PolicyStudents are required to complete all courses for which they are registered by the end of the semester. In some cases, a student may be unable to complete all of the coursework because of extenuating circumstances, but not due to poor performance or to retain financial aid. The term ‘extenuating’ circumstances includes: (1) incapacitating illness which prevents a student from attending classes for a minimum period of two weeks, (2) a death in the immediate family, (3) financial responsibilities requiring a student to alter a work schedule to secure employment, (4) change in work schedule as required by an employer, or (5) other emergencies deemed appropriate by the instructor.Students with DisabilitiesStudents with ADA-documented physical, sensory, emotional or medical impairments may be eligible for reasonable accommodations. Veterans may also be eligible for services. All accommodations are coordinated through the Disability Resource Center (DRC) in Room 101 of the University Inn, (435)797-2444. Please contact the DRC as early in the semester as possible. Alternate format materials (Braille, large print, digital, or audio) are available with advance notice.Contacting the Disability Resource Center (DRC):• On Campus: Room 101 of the University Inn• Phone: 435-797-2444• Website: http://www.usu.edu/drc/

Diversity StatementRegardless of intent, careless or ill-informed remarks can be offensive and hurtful to others and detract from the learning climate. If you feel uncomfortable in a classroom due to offensive language or actions by an instructor or student(s) regarding ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation, contact:• Student Services: http://www.usu.edu/studentservices/,

435.797.1712, studentservices@usu.edu, TSC 220• Student Advocates: http://www.usu.edu/ususa/legal/, 435.797.2912,

TSC 340,• Access and Diversity: http://www.usu.edu/accesscenter/,

435.797.1728, access@usu.edu; TSC 315• Multicultural Programs:

http://www.usu.edu/accesscenter/multiculture/, 435-797-1728, TSC 315

• LGBTQA Programs: http://www.usu.edu/accesscenter/lgbtqa/, 435-797-GAYS, TSC 314

• Provost‘s Office Diversity Resources: http://www.usu.edu/provost/faculty/diversity/, (435) 797-8176

You can learn about your student rights by visiting:The Code of Policies and Procedures for Students at Utah State University: http://www.usu.edu/studentservices/studentcode/Grievance ProcessStudents who feel they have been unfairly treated may file a grievance through the channels and procedures described in the Student Code: Article VII. Grievances.

Calendar of Classes, Sessions, Activities, Readings, Examinations & Assignments:This syllabus is subject to change at the discretion of the instructor.

Week 1-(28 Aug-3 Sep)

MondayModule1-An Intr. to the Study of

Social Inequality Class, Income, and Wealth

Wednesday

Friday

Week 2-(4 Sep-10 Sep)

MondayNo Class Module 2- Poverty and WelfareWednesda

yFriday

Week 3-(11 Sep-17 Sep)

Monday Module 3- Status InequalityWednesday

Friday

Week 4-(18 Sep-24 Sep)

Monday Module 4-Political InequalityWednesday

FridayWeek 5-(25 Sep-1 Oct)

Monday Module 5- Sex and Gender InequalityWednesda

y

Friday

Week 6-(2-8 Oct)Monday

Module 6- Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Inequality

Wednesday

Friday

Week 7-(9-15 Oct)Monday

Module 7-Racial and Ethnic Inequality

Wednesday

Friday

Week 8-(16-22 Oct)

MondayModule 8-Classical Explanations of

InequalityWednesda

y

FridayNo Class

Week 9-(23-29 Oct)

MondayModule 9-Contemporary Explanations

of InequalityWednesda

yFriday

Week 10-(30 Oct-5 Nov)

MondayModule 10-The Impact of Inequality

on Personal Life ChancesWednesda

yFriday

Week 11-(6-12 Nov)

MondayModule 11-Social Consequences of

InequalityWednesda

yFriday

Week 12-(13-19 Nov)

MondayModule 12-Social Inequality and

Social MovementWednesda

yFriday

Week 13-(20--26 Nov)

MondayModule 13-Social Mobility and Status

AttainmentWednesda

yNo Class

FridayNo Class

Week 14-(27 Nov-3 Dec)

Monday Module 13-Social Mobility and Status Attainment

Module 14-Justice and LegitimacyWednesda

yFriday

Week 15-(4-8 Dec)

Monday Module 14-Justice and LegitimacyWednesday

Friday Potluck