Approaches to Sociological Research

This course provides an introductory overview of both qualitative and quantitative methods used in sociological research. Through this course, students learn how sociologists conduct various types of empirical research and how theories are related to research methodologies. .Prerequisite: PRINCIPLES OF SOCIOLOGY, or consultation with instructor prior to registration.
 

Principles of Sociology

Introduction to sociological principles and basic concepts of sociology, with special attention to social action, roles, groups, institutions and systems. Languages of instruction differs by term.
 

Gender and Social Structure

This course will examine social factors causing unequal distribution of social resources, especially focusing on race, ethnicity and gender, in an international perspective.
 

Gender Relations

Gender relations are examined in the field of the family, workplace and sexuality, by comparing societies with different historical and cultural background.
 

Global Sociology

In this course we analyze global interrelationships among nations, ethnic groups, municipalities, industrial organizations, individuals and the other actors. In the process of analysis, we examine merits and the limitations of the world system analysis and dependency theories.
 

International Migration and Ethnicity

This course will examine various aspects (i.e. ethnicity, race relations, gender, development, policies, etc.) of international migration and ethnicity. While acquiring major theories and analytical approaches, it will explore the ways in which we should tackle the problems in Japan as well as in the global society.
 

Introduction to Japanese Society

Basic features of modern Japanese society. Emphasis on the persistence of traditional patterns of social organization and the ways of responding to the problems of industrial society. Includes the individual and society, the family, education, organization of the workplace, etc.
 

Readings in Sociological Texts

Readings of works selected in advance, seminar reports by each student, followed by group discussion.
(Offered Alternate Years)

Social Movements

This course provides a general introduction to theories and concepts hinging on various types of social movements, including the ones in the local and global arenas.
(Offered Alternate Years)

Sociology of Agriculture and Food

The purpose of this course is to examine various social phenomenon surrounding food and agriculture. Along with examining macro social structure such as laws and regulations hinging on food and agriculture, the course also explores micro dimensions such as the implications of social movements upon food systems. Language of instruction differs by year.
(Offered Alternate Years)

Sociology of Development

This course examines a range of issues that developing countries fact through their relations to developed countries. The course approaches to these issues both theoretically and empirically.
 

Sociology of Religion

Through this course students learn sociological perspectives on religious beliefs, practices, and institutions. This course examines how religion influences society and culture and how society and culture in turn influences religion. Language of instruction differs by year.
(Offered Alternate Years)

Sociology of the Family

A review of theories on family and kinship organizations. Cases in Japan and Western societies will be studied.
 

Urban Sociology

Various urban and regional phenomena and the principles behind them. Includes the history, conception, demography, social structure, personality and planning of cities and regions.
 

Political Sociology

Through this course, students learn how social characteristics of a country are interrelated with its political features. More specifically, this course addresses issues such as concepts and theories of political sociology, nationalism, political participation, and political beliefs.
(Offered Alternate Years)

Qualitative Analysis in Sociology I

This course will train students in qualitative sociological analyses. By examining various types of analyses, students will deepen their understanding of the advantages and the limitations of each analytical approach. Language of instruction differs by year.
 

Qualitative Analysis in Sociology II

This course will provide the theory and practice of interview research. By referring to various sociological literatures, students will learn the methods of data collection, data analyses, and the integration of the data into sociological writings. Language of instruction differs by year.
 

Quantitative Analysis in Sociology I

Through this course students learn the workings of the survey research method and introductory statistical analysis of survey data through the use of a statistical software package.
 

Quantitative Analysis in Sociology II

Through this course students learn how to apply multivariate analytical techniques to survey data. Students also develop an ability to critically examine research articles employing multivariate analyses and to incorporate multivariate analysis results into a research paper.
 

Sociological Theories

Development and comparison of major European and American sociological theories, from Comte, Durkheim, and Max Weber to Parsons.
 

Sociology of Environment

This course will examine socioeconomic and cultural factors that create environmental problems; and also explores environmental and ecological forces that influence our society.
 

Sociology of Organization

Analysis of modern organizations, seeking propositions about organizational behavior.
 

Sociology of Science and Technology

This course provides an overview of theories and concepts in the discipline of the sociology of science and technology. The course examines the social and ethical implications of scientific and technological innovations, and also explores various social factors that limit or promote advances of scientific and technological innovations. Language of instruction differs by year.
 

Advanced Studies in Japanese Society

Analysis of functions and structures of social systems in Japan, including family, community, and occupational and political organization.
 

Advanced Studies in Sociology I

Advanced study in selected topics in sociology. Prerequisite: consultation with instructor prior to registration.
 

Advanced Studies in Sociology II

Advanced study in selected topics in sociology. Prerequisite: consultation with instructor prior to registration.
(Offered Alternate Years)

Approaches to Gender Studies

As the foundation course of the Program in Gender and Sexuality Studies, the general frameworks, basic concepts, and historical backgrounds of gender studies will be examined. Based on these understandings, the accumulation and possibilities of gender research and analyses in various disciplines will be described and discussed in order for students to obtain the basic analytical power in dealing with gender analysis in interdisciplinary fields.
 

Senior Thesis

Senior students, under the guidance of an advisor, will select a subject related to their major and prepare a senior thesis. The final product should represent the efforts of one year of sustained and rigorous thinking, research, and writing. Required of all students in their senior year.
 

Social Stratification

The structure of modern industrialized society is examined, especially focusing on the stratified structure of society.
 

Sociology of Gender

To understand the concept "gender"(socially constructed knowledge of maleness/femaleness), and to examine theoretical and empirical studies on gender relations in the field of the family, workplace and sexuality.