The aim of this course is to provide participants with a first insight into the field of economic sociology. The thematic thread of the course is the critical comparison and differentiation of sociological and economic perspectives on economic phenomena. Within this general framework, the course is divided into four blocks.

The first block discusses the relationship between sociology and economics on a general level, and participants will be familiarized with a sociological perspective on economic behaviour (Introduction to Economic Sociology). The second block presents approaches that deal with the relationship between individual behaviour and social structures (Capitalism and the self). The third block introduces some macro-sociological perspectives on the capitalist system with a focus on social inequality (System Critique and Sociological Diagnoses). The fourth block offers an introduction to the sociology of money (Introduction to the Sociology of Money). At the end of each block,  core contents will be summarized and reflected upon in a wrap-up session.

Graduates of this course have an understanding of basic terms, categories and theoretical concepts from the field of economic sociology, and can apply them in the context of actual societal problems. Students gain an insight into current debates in economic sociology and can critically engage with research results. Within the framework of the seminar work, students delve into individually selected topics and develop a deeper sociological understanding of specific economic phenomena. Furthermore, students learn to critically identify and distinguish between sociological and economic perspectives on economic phenomena.

In addition, students are familiarised with the process of scientific writing and argumentation by engaging with selected economic sociological concepts and theories in seminar papers and presenting their own ideas in a critical setting.

Regardless of the reason for absence, a maximum of 2 units of absence will be tolerated. Attendance is compulsory in the first unit.

During the course units, different teaching methods include

- Lectures by the course instructor

- Interactive group exercises

- Discussion moderation and short presentations by students

In addition, students regularly write small assignments in preparation for the course units. Teaching materials are based on a selection of scientific texts, which are contextualized and supplemented with multimedia in the respective unit.

- Seminar paper (45%): individual submission
- Mini-assignments for course preparation (20%): critical engagement with compulsory readings
- Discussion moderation & lead-reading (20%): short presentation and moderation of plenary discussion
- Active participation (15%): in the form of short reflections and during plenary discussions

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