Advanced study in sociology, with specific topics to be announced at the beginning of each semester.

This course explores San Francisco's vibrant social landscape, focusing on the rise and fall of its diverse communities through a sociological lens. From the Gold Rush era to the present day, students will investigate how historical events, economic shifts, and cultural movements have shaped the city’s unique demographic tapestry. We will examine key communities, such as the Chinese, LGBTQ+, and tech populations, analyzing their contributions to the city’s identity. Discussions will also focus on race, class, and gender, providing a nuanced perspective on the complexities of urban life. Through a combination of lectures, readings, and fieldwork, students will explore the factors that foster community resilience and cohesion, as well as those that lead to fragmentation and decline. Key topics will include gentrification, displacement, and the impact of policy decisions on marginalized groups. We will also delve into the social movements that have emerged in response to these challenges, looking at how communities organize for change and the role of activism in shaping public discourse. By the end of the course, students will develop a critical understanding of the forces that influence community dynamics in San Francisco, equipping them with analytical skills to assess social issues in urban environments. This course is ideal for those interested in sociology, urban studies, and social justice.

During Phase 1, students are unable to directly enroll or wait-list into the Sociology 190 Capstone Seminars via Cal Central. Instead, students must fill out a SOC 190 Placement Request Form - https://berkeley.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eyr4UgmPlbelV7U (Available October 6 - December 6, 2024)

Repeat Rules

Requirements class fulfills