SOC 220 - Sociology of the Body

As social actors, we all have bodies that shape our experiences in society, signaling who we are and how we may be treated. Social norms and institutions shape our very bodies and how we use them: medical technologies, fitness and beauty ideals, and social norms for polite manners—all products of human societies—influence the appearance and functioning of our bodies. The primary goal of this class is to learn to think about the body sociologically: in everyday interactions, in organizations, and in society at large. We’ll also ask how studying the body can enhance our understanding of society.

Credits 4



Area
Social Sciences

Division
Social Sciences

Compass Attributes
Social Science, Structure/Power/Inequality, Taylor and Lane Scholars