This course will explore a broad range of theoretical
arguments about the microfoundations of action, including instrumental
rationality, values, emotions, habits, identities, frames, and schemas. Since this topic is necessarily
interdisciplinary, we will be reading work in psychology, economics, political
science, anthropology, and biology, in addition to sociology. The main goal of the course is to provide a
broad overview of the full range of arguments about the microfoundations of
action, and thus of social change, ranging from cultural sociology at the most
macro level to neurobiology at the most micro.
The focus will be more on contemporary than on classical theories, and
(since the scope of the course is so broad) more on summaries of literatures
rather than specialized research.
To check out the syllabus, click here.
