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  3. Theories of Modernity

Theories of Modernity (SOTH40001)

HonoursPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 1
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This subject explores the way modernity is understood through various key texts in modern social theory. Students completing this subject should have developed an understanding of the major conceptual debates concerning the meaning of modernity, gained an awareness of the selected philosophical and theoretical traditions through which this debate has been generated, and demonstrated this understanding through a critical engagement with the historical and theoretical literature.

Intended learning outcomes

Students who successfully complete this subject will:



  • have knowledge of the major ideas and theories of classical and contemporary social theory with particular reference to the modernity debate;
  • have background in social theory on which to base further research and study in the area;
  • have experience of thinking systematically about difficult intellectual problems of an abstract nature;
  • have practice conducting research, speaking articulately, writing clearly and reading with attention to detail;
  • have experience with methods of critical analysis and argument employed in this area of social theory, leading to improved general reasoning and analytical skills;
  • develop an understanding of the major conceptual debates concerning the meaning of modernity;
  • gain an awareness of the selected philosophical and theoretical tradition, through which this debate has been generated;
  • demonstrate this understanding through a critical engagement with the historical and theoretical literature.

Generic skills

Students who successfully complete this subject will:

  • develop skills in written and oral communication;
  • conduct independent research;
  • make appropriate use of primary and secondary sources in mounting an argument;
  • form defensible judgements based on a critical evaluation of conflicting arguments.

Last updated: 3 November 2022