Course Description
Examination of sociological theories and research about non-routine collective behavior such as panics, riots, crazes, cults, fashions, fads, legends, rumors, protests, disasters, and social movements. It examines the role of resources, emotions, identities, social networks, and technology in shaping non-institutionalized collective action.
Athena Title
Collective Behavior
Prerequisite
SOCI 1101 or SOCI 1101H or SOCI 2600 or PSYC 1101 or permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Not offered on a regular basis.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
Our goal in this course will be to understand how classic and contemporary sociological theories make sense of emergent social behavior that takes place outside of conventional institutional structures. Students will gain a working understanding of sociological theories of collective behavior and an up-to-date knowledge of empirical research on extra- institutional group and network-based social behavior. Students will demonstrate their mastery of course content in examinations and will further develop their knowledge by producing research.
Topical Outline
Possible topics: Theories of Collective Behavior Resources and Rationality Collective Identity and Collective Emotion Social Networks Social Media and Collective Behavior Social Contagion and Emergent Norms Gossip, Rumor, Legends Fads, Fashion, Crazes Delusions, Disasters, Panics Collective Violence and Riots