ANSO 300-02, Cultural Motifs: Organizations, power and social change, Spring 2002

Abstract

This course offers an interdisciplinary approach to the study of organizations and social and political change. We begin with an introduction to the general field of study, major theoretical perspectives, historical variations and applied research on organizations. Drawing on insights from sociology, anthropology, political science and history, we discuss basic structures and dynamics of modern organizations and the role they play in societal changes. We examine the relationship between organizations and change through case studies of social movements, states, religions, voluntary associations, international institutions, corporations and other examples. Participants in the class choose a research topic around one of these themes and develop an expertise in an organization. Students with organization-related research projects already underway, and those with service learning/internship experiences, are especially encouraged to attend. By the end, students will have developed conceptual and theoretical, as well as real-life and practical, knowledge of organizations.