Sociology: Sociology of Reproduction

Examines reproduction of cultural values in relation to social conduct of reproduction of human life (childbearing) under advanced capitalism. Prerequisites: SOC 1500; SOC 2500 or SOC 2550; minimum Junior standing.

Pre-reqs enforced by system SOC 1500 and (SOC 2500 or POLS 2800 or SOC 2550) Minimum Junior standing PACE students by permission and override.

This is an upper-level seminar covering issues related to the social organization of human reproduction. Reproduction in a sociological sense refers to not only a biological process (conception, pregnancy, childbirth), but also social reproduction, that is, the process of reproducing members of society. We will also discuss issues of gender throughout the course, as the reproductive process is highly gendered. We will start out with a theoretical and historical overview of important concepts and transitions related to reproduction. They we will consider the interaction of sociological processes and institutions with the social construction of reproduction: economic development, the medical institution, and social class. Finally, we will examine current controversies in the area of state policy and reproductive justice.

Students should come to class having done the week's reading and prepared to share thoughts, interpretations, and ideas. It is expected that controversial issues will be discussed in a respectful way, and students should be prepared to discuss sensitive issues such as abortion, gender identity and norms, childbearing, and fertility. Workload is expected to be 2-3 hours per credit hour outside of class.

Students will take seven pop quizzes, two exams, make a presentation on sociological data, and write a research paper on a topic related to reproduction. The two lowest quiz grades will be dropped.