SOC 216

This survey course examines both classic and newly emerging perspectives in the sociology of work, with an emphasis on the Canadian context. We will focus on the changes in the organizational structures, meaning, and experience of work, paying special attention to differences and inequalities associated with gender, class, and race. The readings include an introductory text, academic journal articles, and an auto-ethnography from the popular literature. The course is divided into three sections. In the first section, the course will cover the nature, distribution, and experience of work in the new ’knowledge’ globalized economy. The second section focuses on the inside of workplaces. The final section will apply the concepts from the first two sections to contemporary debates about the role of technology, foreign workers, the self-employed, and unions. Throughout the course, students will be invited to draw parallels and contrasts between the course content and their experiences in the workplace.