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Urban Sociology
Courses Degree in Social Sciences
Cod: 41066
Department: DCSG
ECTS: 6
Scientific area: Sociology
Total working hours: 156
Total contact time: 15

This course unit has as a major objective the analysis of urban phenomena from a sociological perspective, focusing on the processes of urbanization and urbanity over time. In this context, it aims to provide a broad view on major theoretical perspectives and debates that have shaped sociological studies on urban development. By framing the analysis of cities in the contemporary debate on modernity, special focus is given to the multidimensional relationship between the urban experience and the social, economic, political and cultural dynamics in the global era. The course unit also provides students with multiple dimensions of critical analysis on urban governance and citizenship.

Urbanization
Urbanity
Urban Planning
Urban Governance and Citizenship

1. Understand the evolution of urban phenomena within a sociological framework analysis.
2. Understand the different perspectives and theoretical trends that have shaped the field of urban sociology in modern times.
3.  Identify the major trends of urbanization and urbanity in the contemporary world;  
4.  Reflect critically on patterns of urban governance and planning  in the era of globalization.

I. Introduction. Urban sociology and its scientific scope
II. Origins and Development of Cities
III. Urban Sociology. Theoretical Paradigm
IV. Metropolis and Urbanization Processes in Contemporary World
V. Cities, Society and Culture
VI.  Urban Governance and Globalization

Selected texts from the required bibliography:
Horta, Ana Paula Beja (coord.), 2011, Sociologia Urbana. Lisboa: Universidade Aberta (2ª edição).
Harvey, David, 2014, Cidades Rebeldes. Do Direito à Cidade à Revolução Urbana. São Paulo: Martins Fontes.
Wood, Phil, Charles Landry, 2008, The Intercultural City. Planning for Diversity Advantage, London: Earthscan.

Complementary readings and web resources available online in the virtual classroom.

E-learning.

Continuous assessment is privileged: 2 digital written documents (e-folios) during the semester (40%) and a final digital test, Global e-folio (e-folio G) at the end of the semester (60%). In due time, students can alternatively choose to perform one final exam (100%).

Students are required to have access to a computer with Internet connection as well as digital literacy to work at Moodle platform. English language knowledge is required.