In general terms political sociology examines the social bases of the political power. Many students of political sociology defines power in terms of Weber’s terminology which means someone’s ability to make or convince others or a group of people to do something that is good for himself and if left alone he/she would not normally take such action. The overall objective of political sociology is to provide a bridge between sociology and politics, explain the relationship between society and political sphere, between social and political institutions and finally political and social behaviours. Today we are witnessing an unprecedented social and political upheavals termed as Arab Spring started in Tunisia, Egypt and speeding many countries in the region. This development has been affecting the Middle East deeply and being virtually triggered and directed through Social Media particularly Facebook and Twitter. In order to make sense of what has been happening in the region we desperately need methods, concepts and insights of political sociology. Also, another aim of this course is to discuss power and government relations in their social contexts. This course by educating students inters of politic it will be helping them in order to develop a better citizens.

In this course we are going to focus on the fundamental concepts of political sociology such as political socialization, political culture and legitimacy, political participation and citizenship, political representation and voting, political change and revolutions, social movements, religious movements, globalization and politics.