Markets and Welfare in Contemporary Society: Local and Global Perspectives
Summary
How does society change as the market’s influence grows? What happens to work, housing, pensions and the environment – and to us as people – when social and political objectives come up against demands for competition, efficiency and economic growth? In this course, we explore these questions using sociological theory and current research.
About
The course is based on the premise that markets shape power relations, perceptions and inequality; in other words, they involve more than just economic exchange. We explore the relationship between the market, the state and society through current social issues and complex societal challenges.
In the first part of the course, using sociological theory and current research, we examine how different forms of capitalism and welfare states are organised and changing, and what consequences this has for individuals, organisations and societies in different parts of the world.
In the second part, we delve deeper into how marketisation and financialisation are transforming labour and housing markets, pensions and everyday life. We also examine the relationship between the economy, the environment and climate change. Key questions include:
- How is economic value derived from nature, and who benefits?
- What role do markets, businesses and governance play in the green transition?
We also discuss the commercialisation of intimacy, emotions and everyday life.
During the course, you will develop tools to identify and analyse how markets and market logics shape society, create and reproduce inequality, and reshape power relations within organisations, the workplace and everyday life. You will practise formulating research questions, searching for and evaluating research, and producing a short literature review. At the same time, you will reflect on your future professional role in a society where an increasing number of areas are organised and valued through market logics.
Who should apply?
This course is suitable for students of sociology, political science, economics or other social science subjects who wish to understand how markets shape society, power relations and inequality. It is particularly relevant for those interested in social analysis, policy, public administration, organisations, sustainability or research, and who wish to develop tools for their future professional roles.
Prerequisites and selection
Entry requirements
Minimum 30 ECTS insocial sciences are required for participation in the course. Good knowledge of English is a requirement: English B/ English 6/English level 2 in the Swedish highschool or similar level in the internationally accepted examination in English such as TOEFL or IELTS.
Selection
Selection is based upon the number of credits from previous university studies, maximum 165 credits.
After graduation
The course can be used to complete a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology. As well as a sociologist, you can also describe yourself as a social scientist or behavioural scientist. After graduation, you can work on social issues within government agencies, non-profit organisations, companies or local authorities. Examples of job titles include analyst, case officer, coordinator and project manager.
After completing your Bachelor’s degree, you can also continue your studies and eventually become a teacher or researcher. You can build on your studies with a Master’s degree in sociology, work studies, criminology, HR or another social science subject. It is also possible to progress towards a secondary school teaching qualification (KPU).
Facilities
Teaching takes place in the premises of the Faculty of Social Sciences in the Haga district in central Gothenburg. Lectures and seminars within "Campus Haga" are held in the buildings Dragonen and Sappören (Sprängkullsgatan) as well as Husaren (Husargatan).
More information about facilities
Exchange opportunities
Students taking stand-alone courses have excellent opportunities to take part in exchange programmes. The only requirement is that the courses you take abroad must be eligible for credit towards a future degree at the University of Gothenburg.
