90769 - Sociology of Culture and of the Creative Industries

Academic Year 2019/2020

  • Teaching Mode: Traditional lectures
  • Campus: Rimini
  • Corso: First cycle degree programme (L) in Fashion Cultures and Practices (cod. 9064)

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course students are expected to acquire: knowledge of the main sociological theories and methods for the analysis of cultural processes, including production, diffusion and consumption of cultural objects and the role of creative industries in contemporary society; ability to apply sociological concepts and methods to the analysis of contemporary cultural phenomena, with particular reference to trends in creative industries.

Course contents

The course is an introduction to the sociology of culture, developing in particular themes connected to the creative industries and cultural policies. Classic and contemporary texts of the sociology of culture will be considered. Taking the lead from the main definitions of the concept of culture and the specificity of cultural phenomena, the course contrasts the various available theories. On this basis key contemporary phenomena are taken into consideration: debates on 'global culture', cultural diversity and identity are contextualised and discussed. Recent developments in social theory and research will then be presented, with particular reference to the growing sector of cultural/creative industries, focusing on lifestyles and fashion.

Readings/Bibliography

Key texts are the same for both attending and non-attending students.

The exam is based on the study of the following key texts:

W. Griswold, Sociologia della cultura, Il Mulino, Bologna, 2005

U. Hannerz, La diversità culturale, Il Mulino Bologna, 2001

D. Hesmondhalgh, Le industrie culturali Egea, Milano, 2013, 2a ed. (Folllowing chapters only: Introduzione, 2,3,5,8, Conclusioni)

Teaching methods

Lectures, seminars and practical activities in class.

Assessment methods

Written examination. Details will be given at the start of the course.

Teaching tools

In class we will critically discuss the texts included as key bibliography. We will also use additional material to facilitate active participation in class, with individual study and small group activity.

Office hours

See the website of Monica Sassatelli