Course content

Ideologically different views on family and childhood are at the heart of today's political, cultural and religious controversies. What were once taken for granted, to marry and have children, are now subject to new mechanisms. Parenthood is postponed, informalized family forms are increasing, and the boundaries between family and work life are being erased. The importance of biology, particularly in relation to fatherhood, change. Children grow up in more unstable families, but also with a wider family network, both biological and non-biological. The global has become part of daily life, and represents a historic change for the family and childhood. Gender, generation and class are key approaches in the course. Students will be introduced to new sociological theories of social change and the contexts of family, gender and generation.

Learning outcome

The objective of this course is to increase the understanding of the connections between the modern society and personal life. The course provides insight into new sociological theories with particular emphasis on the connections between the global and the local, general features of family and childhood in the light of modern society and multicultural contexts.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and seminars. The essay is to be an independent discussion of a topic taught in lectures, and is to consist of 20 pages.
If 6 or fewer students sign up for a planned course during the first 2 teaching weeks, the course will be offered as an instructed reading course.

Recommended previous knowledge

See required previous knowledge

Required previous knowledge

Master’s degree in Sociology or equivalent

Course materials

To be given at the start of the course

Credit reductions