Spring 2008

SOC 321K • Work and Labor Markets

Course Description

This course is designed to help students understand critical issues pertaining workplaces and labor markets in industrial societies. One emphasis of this course is gender inequality in the labor market. We begin with an introduction of perspectives concerning occupational attainment and labor market structures. We then examine both theoretical and empirical issues regarding gender inequality in the workplace. Topics to be discussed include worldwide changes in female labor force participation, the gender gap in wages, occupational sex segregation, gender differences in career processes, gender and professional work, and state policies and women's employment. We also address how social institutions that vary from one country to another shape mens and womens opportunities in the labor market. Examples from East Asia, in particular, will be used to illustrate cross-national differences in occupational inequality by gender.

Grading Policy

Students are expected to attend class regularly and read the assigned readings prior to the class period during which we will discuss the material. In addition, active participation in class discussions is highly recommended. Grades for the course will be based on three in-class exams. Students may also get bonus points for active class participation.

Texts

Padavic, Irene and Barbara Reskin, Women and Men at Work, 2nd edition, Thousand Oaks: Pine Forge Press, 2002
A reading packet is available.

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