University of Guelph College of Social and Applied Human Sciences
Department of Sociology and Anthropology
SOC*4480 – Moral Regulation
Fall 2025
Instructor: Andy Hathaway
Office: MACK-610
Office Hours: TBA
Lecture Time and Location: TBA
E-mail: hathawaa@uoguelph.ca
Course Description and Objectives
The objective of this seminar is to introduce students to contemporary literature and critical perspectives on the evolving concept of moral regulation. The course is also designed to enable students to critically evaluate social policy and practice applying views advanced by moral regulation scholars. We will examine theoretical and substantive contributions with particular attention to Canadian examples. Selections from the literature will be reviewed by students with the aim to build on historical case studies by exploring current applications of these concepts. Potential topics of discussion include sexual behaviour, drug consumption, public health, and the moral regulation of the poor.
Required Textbooks
Amanda Glasbeek. 2006. Moral Regulation and Governance in Canada: History, Context, and Critical Issues. Toronto: Canadian Scholars’ Press.
Deborah Brock, Amanda Glasbeek, and Carmela Murdocca. 2014. Criminalization,
Representation, Regulation: Thinking Differently About Crime. University of Toronto Press.
Evaluation
Grades will be determined on the basis of the following:
Term Paper (30%)
Midterm Exam (30%)
Group work (20%)
Participation (20%)