This course explores the distinctive contributions of sociology to the study of emotions. We explore sociological concepts, theories, and case studies that consider emotions, which are perhaps the most deeply felt experiences in the consciousnesses of individuals, as fundamentally social phenomena. Topics include: the social construction of moral panics and “folk devils”’ in social movements; hedonic cruelty; emotional labor in work organizations; emotional socialization in high-risk professions; the social structure of empathy, sympathy and pity; racial, class, and status stratification and the invidious social emotions of resentment, envy and Schadenfreude. Emphasis on showing how sociological perspectives on emotions can enhance students’ abilities to navigate the “complexities of feeling” in order to foster individual and collective human flourishing.

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 20

Prerequisites: None.

Distribution Requirements: SBA - Social and Behavioral Analysis

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Fall; Not Offered