Sociology 149/249; Urb 112; CSRE 149A: The Urban Underclass

Spring, 2024

Community guidelines, rev 2/26/2024

* The world is not normal right now. If the world-wide craziness is interfering with your ability to get things done, reach out to me and we will find an accommodation as best we can. See also the class syllabus.

* Because we are still in the middle of a global pandemic, health and safety are our first priorities. We will follow Stanford’s COVID safety policies, which indicate that I as instructor can set a masking policy. I will wear a mask at all times. I will ask students sitting in the first two rows to mask during class.

* We will treat each other with mutual respect, both by wearing a mask when policy requires it, and by showing respect in the words we choose. We are going to be reading about and talking about some difficult issues in this class including segregation, racism, and violence. The readings cover a wide range of viewpoints and perspectives. We are going to endeavor to learn from all of them.

* 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 view point of any particular author or classmate, 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 section 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.

* Students may not interrupt each other in section (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 you will be called on in turn. See also the instructions for section presenters.

* Class is a 90 minute period. I will endeavor to end class 10 minutes early, so that we can have time to talk informally.

* Materials posted to Canvas and Zoom recordings (if any) are for the exclusive use of students in the class and may not be shared with anyone outside of the class.