Student to teach new class, ‘Sociology of Film’
- posted: 04 Dec. 2007
- scrollcampus@byui.edu
Students often hear that movies affect their views of society. But there has not been a class specifically focused on just how movies change the way we view the world — until now.
Jameson Leak, a junior studying sociology, realized how much films could change people’s views and will be teaching a class on it next semester.
Leak’s class, Sociology of Film, will be offered Winter Semester 2008. The class will be held Mondays from 2-3 p.m. The class will discuss how societal views are changed, shaped or affected by film.
“We will discuss how film changes the way that we think of and view ourselves and the world around us,” Leak said. “Everyone sees and has access to movies, so there is no way that movies don’t affect us. It’s just realizing how.”
The course will discuss issues such as race, war, violence and gender roles, as well as many others. It is not for the light-hearted, as controversial social issues will be discussed. Students will watch and discuss films. Stephen Smith, sociology professor will support the class and be in attendance, but Leak will teach it.
“This class is for people who are interested in learning and increasing their knowledge,” Leak said. “It’s an open-minded, free-thinking class that is completely open to a variety of opinions.”
Leak encourages as many different types of people with varying opinions to sign up for the class as possible.
“[People in] different majors will give different perspectives and views. I want lots of different views for arguments and discussions,” Leak said. “It’s going to challenge our thinking and change the way people question and think about things.” 
