Economic Sociology and Sociology of Organisations

The course introduces students to the analysis of the socio-economic processes characterizing contemporary societies and their organization. After a brief introduction to current economic sociology in general, the course focuses on the sociological analysis of school systems. The historical origin and the current organization of modern school systems, in their relation with the economic and political spheres, and the relevance of schooling for economic development is a core theme for current public policies. The course will give much space to the topic of economic and social inequality, and the role of schools in this respect will be discussed. Also the daily life in schools, as well as the way it relates to social life in general, will be focused upon.

The course provides students with the analytical tools and the substantive knowledge needed to understand the socio-economic processes taking place in contemporary societies. In particular, they will be able to understand the social, economic and political structures of current school systems, as well as their interdependencies. They will also be able to consciously interpret the data used in mass communication and /or professional contexts.