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SOC 222
The Future of Childhood
SOC 222 SP
Photo Caption and Credits
Next Offered in 9899 SP
History teaches that childhood is actually a relatively
recent invention of the modern age. The collapse of urban
economies and social structures is the prominent reason why
childhood itself may be threatened. Among the subjects
considered in this course will be the effects of urban
violence on child development, the political economy of
drugs, and the recent history of the urban family and
poverty. The course is particularly recommended for those
interested in learning how to solve social problems
practically, politically, and humanely.
MAJOR READINGS
Alex Kotlowitz, THERE ARE NO CHILDREN HERE
Melvin Konner, CHILDHOOD
Susan Sheehan, WELFARE MOTHER
National Commission on Children, A NEW AMERICAN AGENDA FOR
CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
Plus selected readings in the sociology, history, and social
science of childhood.
EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS
Attendance, participation,
group projects, writing, final paper, joint legislative
proposal.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS
Students are
expected to register for one of three group discussion
Sections IN ADDITION TO the Monday evening class.
The groups will develop legislative proposals based on
reading, discussion, guest lecturers. The proposal will be
presented to practicing legislators or politicians.
Unless preregistered students attend the first class meeting
or communicate directly with the instructor prior to the
first class, they will be dropped from the class list.
NOTE: Students must submit a completed Drop/Add form to the
Registrar's Office.
COURSE FORMAT: Discussion Fieldwork Laboratory Lecture
Seminar
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
Level: UG Credit: 1.00
Gen Ed Area & Dept: SBS SOC
Prerequisites:
None
Last Updated on MAR-10-1997
About the Photo:
The concept of "childhood" is a social construction which is
different across cultures and time periods
Reference:
Papalia, Diane E. and Sally Wendkos Olds, A CHILD'S
WORLD, New York: McGraw-Hill, 1986.
Contact wesmaps@wesleyan.edu to
submit comments or suggestions.
Copyright Wesleyan University, Middletown, Connecticut, 06459