Labor Market and Inequalities
A.Y. 2025/2026
Learning objectives
The objective of this course is to equip students with an understanding of the challenges encountered in contemporary labour markets within developed societies. Additionally, the course seeks to delve into and debate the primary sources of inequalities experienced by individuals in the labour market, influenced by factors such as social background, gender, age, migratory status, and geographical origin. While focusing primarily on describing the characteristics of the Italian labour market and the associated inequalities, the course frequently draws comparisons with other countries.
Expected learning outcomes
Students will acquire key tools for comprehending the dynamics of the labour market and its associated challenges regarding inequality. Furthermore, students will develop the ability to interpret and engage in critical discussions regarding findings related to labour market dynamics and inequalities as presented in both public discourse and academic literature.
Lesson period: Third trimester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Single course
This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Responsible
Lesson period
Third trimester
Course syllabus
The course is structured into two main parts. In the first part, students will be introduced to the fundamental concepts underpinning the sociological analysis of labour markets and inequalities. This part will explore key concepts and indicators used to examine the structure and changes of labour markets, as well as inequalities within them. In the second part, the focus will shift to exploring the primary sources and dimensions of inequalities within labour markets. Through examination of recent empirical research, the course will analyze and discuss key evidence pertaining to inequalities based on social background, gender, and migratory status.
Prerequisites for admission
No specific prerequisites are necessary for enrolling in the course. However, basic knowledge of sociology may prove beneficial.
Teaching methods
The course consists of traditional frontal lectures as well as student presentations on topics of their choice relevant to the course.
Teaching Resources
In the first part of the course, a selection of mandatory readings - comprising book chapters and scientific articles - will be assigned. The complete list of readings will be made available before the course begins.
In the second part of the course, selected chapters from the following book will be assigned:
Platt, L. (2019). Understanding Inequalities: Stratification and Difference. John Wiley & Sons.
These chapters will be supplemented by additional readings drawn from empirical research articles, which will help illustrate how key theoretical concepts are applied in contemporary sociological research.
In the second part of the course, selected chapters from the following book will be assigned:
Platt, L. (2019). Understanding Inequalities: Stratification and Difference. John Wiley & Sons.
These chapters will be supplemented by additional readings drawn from empirical research articles, which will help illustrate how key theoretical concepts are applied in contemporary sociological research.
Assessment methods and Criteria
For attending students:
Student assessment will be based on two components: an oral presentation and a written exam.
The oral presentation will consist of a critical review of the state of the art on a selected topic covered in the course (or more broadly, on issues related to labour markets or inequalities).
The written exam will include both multiple-choice and open-ended questions, designed to assess students' understanding of key topics covered in class.
For non-attending students:
Assessment will be based entirely on a written exam, which will include both multiple-choice and open-ended questions covering the full set of mandatory readings.
Student assessment will be based on two components: an oral presentation and a written exam.
The oral presentation will consist of a critical review of the state of the art on a selected topic covered in the course (or more broadly, on issues related to labour markets or inequalities).
The written exam will include both multiple-choice and open-ended questions, designed to assess students' understanding of key topics covered in class.
For non-attending students:
Assessment will be based entirely on a written exam, which will include both multiple-choice and open-ended questions covering the full set of mandatory readings.
SPS/09 - ECONOMIC SOCIOLOGY AND SOCIOLOGY OF WORK AND ORGANIZATIONS - University credits: 6
Lessons: 40 hours
Professor:
Cantalini Stefano
Professor(s)
Reception:
Thursday, 9.30-12.30
Microsoft Teams (by appointment)