The field and subject of sociology. Research methods of social sciences and sociology. Basic concepts.

Classics of sociology: Karl Marx, Emile Durkheim, Max Weber, Vilfredo Pareto and Georg Simmel. Main sociological approaches: functionalism, conflict, exchange and interaction theories, phenomenology, ethnomethodology and dramaturgical analysis.

Contemporary scholars: Analysis of their theoretical work with emphasis on the issues of sociology of labour, economic sociology and sociology of organizations and businesses.

Special Issues in sociology: Social organization in industrial and post-industrial society (social roles, social relations and social institutions: family, education, state, economy and religion). Socialization.

Globalization and labour relations. Labour relations institutions and regulations in Europe and Greece.

Case studies relating to international and Greek experience: Social changes and technological developments in modern society.

On successful completion of the course students will:

• gain knowledge on issues in the field of sociology and, in particular, industrial sociology, with emphasis on sociology of work and economic sociology;
• understand the broader social environment in which enterprises and organizations operate, as well as issues relating to social structures and processes, so that they will have the proper cognitive background to confront questions that will arise during the course of their work in businesses and organizations;
• acquire specific knowledge concerning the functions of formal and informal groups within organizations;
• acquire the skills and competencies necessary for their future work roles.