SNRSCH3274 - SOC 3230 -The Sociology of Truth

Course Description

What is truth? What is the criterion of truth? In the so-called “post-truth” era, is there any truth anymore? If yes, what are the grounds on which some beliefs are considered to be more accurate or truer than others? Moreover, is truth necessarily important? And how is truth currently being treated in society and why is that? This course addresses those and other related questions from the sociological perspective. Topics to be covered include the philosophy of truth, the sociology of knowledge, the strong program for the sociology of science, fake news, alternative facts, and the relativity of veracity. The purpose of this course is to look for a new conception of truth that facilitates a better understanding of the relationships among knowledge, society, and human existence.