Classical Sociological Theory Course Syllabus

Overview: This course provides a comprehensive introduction to classical sociological theory, exploring key thinkers and foundational concepts from the 18th to the 20th centuries. Designed for beginners, it offers flexible, self-paced learning with approximately 9 hours of total content. Through engaging lectures and structured assessments, learners will gain a deep understanding of how classical theories explain societal structures and transformations.

Module 1: Classical Sociological Theory – An Introduction

Estimated time: 1 hour

• Introduction to classical sociological theory
• Historical roots of sociology
• Relevance of classical theory in modern societies
• Course aims and structure overview

Module 2: Bernard Mandeville and Adam Smith

Estimated time: 1 hour

• Analysis of Mandeville’s 'The Fable of the Bees'
• Mandeville’s influence on Adam Smith
• The concept of the division of labor
• Early insights into industrialization and economic society

Module 3: Auguste Comte

Estimated time: 1 hour

• Exploration of Comte’s positivism
• The 'law of three stages' of intellectual development
• Comte’s vision for sociology as a science
• The role of social order and progress

Module 4: Alexis de Tocqueville

Estimated time: 1 hour

• Analysis of Tocqueville’s study of democracy
• Insights on equality and individualism
• The tension between freedom and conformity
• Relevance to modern political systems

Module 5: Karl Marx

Estimated time: 1 hour

• Marx’s critique of capitalism
• Class struggle and historical materialism
• The concept of alienation
• Marxism’s impact on contemporary sociology

Module 6: Émile Durkheim

Estimated time: 1 hour

• Durkheim’s concept of social facts
• Mechanical and organic solidarity
• Study of suicide as a social phenomenon
• Methodological contributions to sociology

Module 7: Max Weber

Estimated time: 1 hour

• Weber’s theory of rationalization
• The rise of bureaucracy
• The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism
• Interpretive sociology and social action

Module 8: Norbert Elias

Estimated time: 1 hour

• Introduction to process sociology
• The civilizing process
• Long-term social developments
• Self-constraint and social behavior

Module 9: Final Assessment

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Comprehensive test on all course modules
• Application of classical theories to contemporary issues
• Certificate of completion upon passing

Prerequisites

• Familiarity with basic social science concepts
• Interest in history and philosophy of social thought
• Willingness to engage with complex theoretical texts

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Explain foundational concepts of classical sociological theory
• Analyze the works of key thinkers such as Marx, Durkheim, and Weber
• Apply classical theories to modern social issues
• Develop critical thinking through engagement with sociological texts
• Prepare for advanced studies or professional work in sociology and related fields