The first part of 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.

After the introductory block, the course will focus on central sociological topics.  Among other things, we will deal with questions related to social capital and social inequality. Here, students will engage with core writings of (economic) sociology by Mark Granovetter and Pierre Bourdieu. In the final sessions, we will discuss the interconnectedness of morals, markets, and money.

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.

In general, attendance in this course is mandatory. That is, you are allowed to miss at most two 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).

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

• Oral (group) presentation and active participation in class-room discussions (30 %)
• Reading assignments (30 %): Six assignments based on mandatory readings. Each worth 5 %
• Final exam (40 %): The final exam covers the entire course content (presentations, readings, lectures). To pass the course, you need to pass the final exam (score more than 20 percentage-points).