SOC323

This course explores the social relationships people have to the physical world. Our physical environment influences our interactions, wellbeing, and life outcomes. The first half of this course focuses on the theories behind space and place. Students distinguish between these similar concepts while exploring the impact they may have on an individual. Next, students are introduced to sociological literature that demonstrates the impact that physical places can have on individual outcomes. This section of the course examines neighborhood characteristics, zoning, transit, public investment, and social infrastructure. The second half of the course introduces students to basic geographic information system (GIS) techniques using R to map physical locations.