Sociology and Criminology

Inequalities Across the Divides

Module code: L3129B
Level 6
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Workshop
Assessment modes: Portfolio

Inequality in the 21st century is deeply rooted, all pervasive and ever enduring. It adopts new formations and also cements decade-old divisions and distinctions within and between communities and countries.

This module explores axes of inequalities across the divides (of class, gender, race, boundaries and boarders) in the UK and globally. It problematises assumptions that hold inequalities as something that essentialised, denied and downplayed, and casts light on, the historical, structural and hierarchical forces that have shaped and make today’s most enduring inequalities. It considers:

• the very question of what is meant by inequality
• causes and consequences of inequality
• how inequality is lived on the everyday level
• the relationality of inequalities.

The moudle also asks what a more equal word might look like and how it might be achieved.

Module learning outcomes

• Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of sociological (and other) perspectives pertaining to inequality.
• Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of empirical research on inequality.
• Make appropriate use of empirical data and theoretical concepts/frameworks from across the module to produce coherent and detailed work on a topic pertaining to the sociology of inequalities.
• Demonstrate an ability to research independently, exercise critical judgement, and write cogently and persuasively