The course offers an introduction into economic sociology. The objective of the course is to familiarize students with a sociological perspective on economic phenomena. More specifically, we examine differences and commonalities between sociological and economic approaches to understanding economic actions, institutions, and systems. This includes, but is not restricted, to a comparison of the prevailing models of man, the historical development, and the theoretical core concepts of both disciplines. The course is structured in two thematic blocks.

The first block focuses on micro-sociological questions. Among other things, we will discuss the meaning of concepts, like social behavior, social norms, and social capital, and explore explanations of cooperation, trust and social order. The second block deals with macro-sociological questions. As part of this block, we will analyse the institutions of modern capitalist societies, identify their cultural foundations, and elaborate on their association with different moral principles.

Participants will develop a basic understanding of the main sociological concepts and learn to apply them to societal and economic problems. After finish this course, students will be able to assess economic relationship from a critical sociological point of view (‘thinking sociologically’). Moreover, students are offered an opportunity to engage with specific sociological topics in more detail. With an emphasis of this course being on written work, they will develop and improve their academic writing skills.

Students are allowed to miss at most one out of six sessions (irrespective of whether the course takes place on campus or online).

Attendance in the first session is mandatory (if you cannot attend the first session please let me know by email).

Further details on attendance will be discussed in the first (constitutive) session.

The course consists of introductory lectures, individual and group work, preparatory readings, written assignments, oral presentations, and seminar discussions.

assessment will be based on the following components: 
-) oral presentation (30 %)
-) portfolios and essays (30 %)
-) final paper (30 %)
-) active participation (10 %)