Sociology 9N community guidelines:

Aug 13, 2024

Note: These guidelines are subject to revision through feedback and experience

* Rule #1 is mutual respect. We are going to be talking about electoral politics in this class, and I guarantee that we are not all going to agree on candidates or issues. We live in a country where political divisions are as deep as they ever have been. Rule #1 in this class is that we have to show each other mutual respect despite our disagreements on political issues. Regardless of what you think of the candidates or issues that others in the class support, you will treat others in the class as people of good will. You will endeavor to always assume good will on the part of all your classmates, and they will be obligated to assume good will on your part. Showing respect to all your classmates and your teacher is a key part of your class participation grade. This rule is not subject to revision.

* We will practice listening and affirming before we respond to each other. “I really understand your point about policy X, and I agree that author Y offers evidence in support, but I disagree because the data (or the history of a certain policy, or author Z says)…”

* Strong arguments will be based on empirical data and the readings, not on your personal belief system. You are entitled to your personal belief system of course, but to make effective points in class you need to rely on the class material that we all share, and that starts with the readings.

* Students may not interrupt each other (no matter how much you disagree with what someone else is saying). Other class members get to say what they want to say, and subsequently you will get to say what you want to say. Raise your hand, and I will call on you. Sometimes I will call on you even if you don’t raise your hand.

* We are going to get to know each other in this class. Part of getting to know each other and showing respect is addressing each other by the names and pronouns that accord to each person’s preference.

* Acknowledgement of challenging times. This class is designed to be flexible, with flexible short assignments that you can schedule for days that work for you. Any time you want to reach out, email me and I will make a time to meet or Zoom with you 1-to-1.