Educate and critically examine the different sociological and other social scientific theories surrounding issues of death and spirituality Create a sociological awareness, sensitivity and understanding of death and spirituality Develop a global awareness of different death practices, thereby instilling a sense of empathy when it comes to dealing with death Expose students to the different landscapes, spaces and places associated with death and spirits

(LO1) Identify, explain and critique sociological and other social science theories on death and spirituality

(LO2) Describe and analyse the different ways in which individuals and society make sense of death and the spiritual realm

(LO3) Show awareness of the ethical issues surrounding the study of death

(LO4) Apply sociological theories to the study of a culture’s treatment of either death, spirituality or both

(S1) Global perspectives demonstrate international perspectives as professionals/citizens; locate, discuss, analyse, evaluate information from international sources; consider issues from a variety of cultural perspectives, consider ethical and social responsibility issues in international settings; value diversity of language and culture

(S2) Media literacy online critically reading and creatively producing academic and professional communications in a range of media

(S3) Problem solving/ critical thinking/ creativity analysing facts and situations and applying creative thinking to develop appropriate solutions.

(S4) Literacy application of literacy, ability to produce clear, structured written work and oral literacy - including listening and questioning

How do we understand death and spirituality as social processes? In this module students make use of social, geographical and anthropological theories to understand the different and myriad ways in which society and individuals engage with death, the dead and the spiritual realm. Classes will consist of lectures and interactive seminars, with a particularly international perspective on death and spiritual rituals. Students reading for this module will find connections to SOCI236 Urban Sociology, as well as make use of methods learnt in SOCI248 Qualitative Research Methods. However, neither are pre-requisites for taking this course. It should be noted that during the course of the module students will be exposed to images, videos and discussions about death, dying and animist spiritualism, the last involving scenes which some may find distressing. Introduction: What is the Sociology of Death? Classical perspectives The “Impact” of Death Good and Bad Deaths – Soc ial Stratifications Death and Identity Death and the Media Deathscapes and Sacred Spaces The Agency of Corpses Social Constructions of Spirituality Conversations with the Dead God with Us: Spirit Mediums Digital Media and Spiritual Worship Conclusion: The Socio-Spiritual World

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Description: Lectures on Death and Spirituality
Attendance Recorded: Not yet decided

Teaching Method 2 - Seminar
Description: Seminars covering specific topics on death and spirituality
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teaching Method 3 - Field Work
Description: Field trip (during seminar slot) to a cemetery
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Notes: Cemetery will be in walking distance from campus. Arrangements will be made for students with mobility issues