Module Information

‘Understanding (in)equality and (in)justice’ introduces students to some of the fundamental issues studied within Sociology; namely the way in which social differences of different kinds lead to inequalities and injustices. Students are also introduced to the efforts made by institutions of different kinds, such as the state and non-governmental organizations, to address and reduce these inequalities and injustices.

The module is divided into two parts. In the first half, students will explore a key concern of Sociology – inequality - to explain how and why material and symbolic rewards are distributed unequally. They will consider the unequal distribution of wealth, privilege and power and will be encouraged to question understandings of various inequalities in society. Discussion will focus on inequalities deriving from various social divisions including those relating to social class, gender and race, as well as sexuality, age, religion and disability. Following this, attention will turn to the efforts that have been made by institutions and various other stakeholders to address and reduce these inequalities. The idea of social justice will be introduced to students as an overarching concept that can help to explain these various efforts to reduce inequalities. The second half of the module will also highlight the way in which understandings of social justice underpin attempts to address social inequalities within public policy.