Sociological Epilogue
As our course lessons end, I want to leave with some final sociological wisdom. Much of what we learned may resonate with you over time and so I hope that you take lessons with you and find them beneficial as you go forth.
First, as we started the semester with a mindful meditation, be mindful of yourself. You are your own best advocate and friend. Keep yourself in your own thoughts and be aware of your own needs. Make time to spend quietly with yourself. Make time to detach from yourself and just be; listen for the silence. Recall that our lessons were meant to help you do all of that.
As you develop your mindfulness, remember to do this sociologically, and the message there was simple: YOU MATTER. You matter to yourself so be aware of the ways in which you are being influenced. Be kind to yourself knowing that you have been shaped by dynamics beyond your control and knowing that you are a work in progress. Every moment is new and you are not static. You are growing and changing.
And, you matter to others so be aware of the influence that you contribute to. This may seem trite, but it is in fact our reality. From quantum physics to epigenetic biology to sociology to theology, the more we learn, the more the research is clear – we all affect each other.
The awareness of the social influence on others also has helped me to be more understanding and forgiving because even if I do not agree with them, I know others have been influenced by forces beyond their control. Sociological mindfulness reminds me to be kind. Each person is part of a multitude of groups that have been shaped by social forces, but each person has a unique identity. It is a sociological paradox that we recognize the forces that shapes us all similarly at the same time that we recognize the individual identity uniquely held by each individual.
Personal evaluation.
Please fill out this anonymous course evaluation which helps me tweak the class to make improvements based on student feedback. I really value your feedback and I want to continue to make sure that the course serves students the best it can. Here is the Spring 2023 evaluation.
Here is the final assessment for the course. It is due by the end of our class's scheduled exam period.
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