(See also General Regulations, pp. 1 to 16)

Bachelor of Cognitive Science (BCogSc)

Bachelor of Economics (BEcon)

Bachelor of Finance (BFin)

Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science (BSc[ActuarSc])

Bachelor of Social Sciences (BSocSc)

Bachelor of
Social Work (BSW)

Master of Economics (MEcon)

Master of Housing Management (MHousMan)

Master of Public Administration (MPA)

Master of Social Sciences (MSocSc)

Master of Social Work (MSW)

Master of Statistics (MStat)

Postgraduate
Certificate in
Psychology (PCPsych)

Advanced Diploma in Social Work (AdvDip[SocWk])

SS 2 To be eligible for admission to the degree of Bachelor of Social Sciences candidates shall

SS 3 The curriculum for the degree of Bachelor of Social Sciences shall extend over not less than three academic years and shall include the Final Examination Part I, Part II and Part III held annually, at the end of the first, second and third years respectively. Candidates shall select courses in accordance with Regulations SS 6 and SS 9 below, and such selection shall be subject to the approval of the Faculty Board.

SS 4 In the Final Examination Part I, Part II and Part III an assessment of the candidates' coursework during the year, including completion of written assignments and participation in fieldwork or laboratory work, as case may be, shall be taken into account in determining their results in each written examination paper.

SS 5 Candidates who are unable because of their illness to be present for any paper or papers in the Final Examination Part I and Part II may apply for permission to present themselves for a supplementary examination to be held before the beginning of the first semester of the following academic year. Any such application shall be made on the form prescribed within two weeks of the first day of absence from any examination. Candidates who fail to satisfy the examiners in one or more papers in such a supplementary examination shall be considered under the provisions made in these Regulations for failure at the first attempt at the examination, except that a further supplementary examination shall not be permitted.

SS 6 To complete the first year of the curriculum, candidates shall follow seven courses plus the compulsory English course and satisfy the examiners at the Final Examination Part I which shall consist of one paper in each of the courses selected, together with any fieldwork, oral and practical tests prescribed in the syllabus; provided that

SS 7 Candidates in the Final Examination Part I who have failed to satisfy the examiners in one paper only, but have achieved in their opinion a sufficiently high standard in other papers to compensate for that failure, may be deemed to have satisfied the examiners but shall not be permitted to select a second- or third-year course for which the failed paper forms a prerequisite unless they are given permission by the Department concerned to sit a qualifying examination in the failed paper and satisfy the examiners in this.

SS 8

SS 9 To complete the second and third years of the curriculum, candidates shall follow the equivalent of sixteen courses and satisfy the examiners at the Final Examination Parts II and III in the sixteen papers for the selected courses, eight papers to be taken at Part II at the end of the second year and eight papers at Part III at the end of the third year. Selection of courses shall include not less than eight and not more than twelve from those offered by a single core department except where otherwise provided for in the syllabuses, and shall be subject to such other conditions as prescribed in the syllabuses.

SS 10 An alphabetical list shall be published of candidates successful in the Final Examination Parts I and II, while the list of candidates successful in the whole of the Final Examination shall be published in five divisions: First Class Honours, Second Class Honours Division One, Second Class Honours Division Two, Third Class Honours, Pass. The standard attained in each of the three Parts of the Final Examination shall be taken into account in determining the candidates' classifications.

SS 11

SS 12 Candidates in the Final Examination Part III who have failed to satisfy the examiners in three or more papers, including where appropriate the Part II papers examined or re-examined under the provisons of Regulation SS 11(a), shall be required either to repeat the courses for the failed papers and present themselves for re-examination in the papers when the examination is next held, or to repeat the final year of the curriculum and present themselves for re-examination in the whole of Part III of the Final Examination when the examination is next held, but in either case shall not be eligible for honours unless the Senate directs that they shall be so eligible because of exceptional circumstances. Candidates who fail to satisfy the examiners in this second attempt shall be recommended for discontinuation under the provisions of General Regulation G 12. If they are not required by the Senate to discontinue their studies and are permitted to present themselves for a third time, they shall then in no circumstances be eligible for honours. Candidates who present themselves for re-examination may offer the same papers in which they have failed, or substitute other papers.

SYLLABUSES FOR THE DEGREE OF
BACHELOR OF SOCIAL SCIENCES

GENERAL FEATURES

(It should be noted that initially the number of places for each of these 'major' options will be up to thirty only.)

First Year

Candidates must follow seven courses plus the compulsory English course 77100 in the first year in accordance with Regulation SS 6. They must of course include the subject in which they intend to major. Candidates are allowed to select only one course in any one department and not less than five courses from those offered by the School of Economics and Finance, the Departments of Politics and Public Administration, Psychology, Social Work and Social Administration, Sociology and Statistics. Candidates in the Statistics Stream must take Mathematics and are advised to select Computer Science as an option. The Department of Statistics offers an alternative introductory course to cater for candidates in the General Stream who do not have Advanced Level Pure Mathematics. The Department of Mathematics offers three courses, designed for students with different mathematics background, students may only choose one of these courses.

Candidates intending to select Public and Social Administration or Criminal Justice or Politics and Philosophy or European Studies as a major in the second and third years should note the requirement of specific first-year courses on pp. 650-656.

In addition to course 77100 which is a whole-year course, candidates may not take more than four courses in any semester. Courses offered by core departments will normally be offered twice. There are no prerequisites, unless otherwise stated, for admission to these courses.

Unless otherwise specified, the examination for each course is one two-hour written paper and the final grading will be determined by performance in the examination and assessment of coursework in the ratio of 75:25.

First-year Courses

Economics and Finance

Candidates may select either 11001 or 11002 but not both. Candidates who intend to follow courses offered by the School of Economics and Finance in the second and third years must have taken 11001 in the first year.

11001. Introduction to economics I

An introduction to the basic concepts and principles of economics, with emphasis on the theoretical framework of choice theory, the nature of constraints, the measure of value, the laws of demand and productivity, and the implications for resource use and employment. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

11002. Introduction to economics II

Further discussion of demand and supply and multi-market equilibrium, especially in an aggregative context. An introduction to money, banking, financial markets, and open economies. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

Politics and Public Administration

Candidates may select either 13101 or 13102 but not both.

13101. Introduction to political science

This is a basic course which is intended to give students an introduction to the concepts, methods and some of the problems involved in the study of political science. Assessment: 30% coursework, 70% examination.

13102. Introduction to public administration

This is a basic course which introduces students to the fundamental concepts and issues in public administration, focusing on the scope of the subject and the relationship between public administration and politics. Assessment: 30% coursework, 70% examination.

Psychology

14101. A 1. Introduction to psychology

Discussion of basic concepts in psychology and a preliminary survey of representative work carried out in various areas of psychological investigation, together with an investigation at some length of one such area.

Social Work and Social Administration

15111. Introduction to social administration

This course introduces the basic concepts in social administration. The range and variety of social services in Hong Kong, such as education, medical and health, housing, labour and social welfare, will be discussed. Assessment: 30% coursework, 70% examination.

Sociology

Candidates may select either 16101 or 16102 but not both.

16101. Introduction to sociology

This course introduces students to the nature of sociological enquiry and the basic concepts used in sociological analysis. After some reference to the influence of inheritance and environment on human social behaviour, the course will focus on key concepts used in the analysis of cultures, social structures, social processes and social change. The relationship between research, concepts and contemporary theory will be explored at an introductory level.

16102. Introduction to anthropology

This course will explore, through cross-cultural comparison, key social and cultural issues, such as marriage and the family, caste and class, ethnicity and identity, language and culture, state formation, economic values, gender and religion. The course will draw on studies of the peoples and cultures of Asia. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

Statistics

Candidates may take one course in Statistics, either 17101, 17103 or 17106. Course 17101 is designed for students without a mathematical training. Course 17106 is compulsory for students in the Statistics Stream and provides an in-depth study of probability and statistics. Course 17103 provides a course intermediate in mathematical difficulty; it is suitable for students who have either Advanced Level Pure Mathematics or Advanced Supplementary Level Mathematics and Statistics. Students without one of these qualifications, but with at least Grade C in Advanced Level Physics, should also have sufficient mathematical background to study 17103.

17101. Elementary statistical methods

The discipline of statistics is concerned with situations involving uncertainty and variability. Variability greatly affects the interpretation of data. Thus statistics forms an important descriptive and analytical tool of the social sciences. This elementary course, which is taught without any technical mathematics, presents many standard situations of data interpretation. The statistical tests for these situations are presented.

17103. Introductory statistics

The discipline of statistics is concerned with situations involving uncertainty and variability. The interpretation of data is greatly affected when variability plays a role, as it usually does. Thus statistics forms an important descriptive and analytical tool of the social sciences. Candidates with a mathematical background will find this course suitable, because the language of mathematics allows the subject of statistics to be presented with economy and clarity.

17106. Probability and statistics

This course provides the basic foundations in probability and statistics for students in the Statistics Stream or BSc(ActuarSc), though the course is also suitable for mathematically-able students from other quantitative curricula. Probability theory underpins the study of statistics. The course aims firstly to develop skills in probabilistic analysis for problems involving randomness. Random variables and probability distributions are studied in depth. The concepts of statistics are then introduced, guided by motivating examples.

American Studies Programme

Candidates may select either 74102 or 74103, but not both.

74102. America at century's end: introduction to American studies

This course provides a multidisciplinary introduction to the United States during the past thirty years. It also gives students a grounding in multidisciplinary study techniques. Lectures and tutorials draw upon the areas of sociology, politics, history, culture, literature, film, and media, to provide an integrated understanding of the recent United States. This course is designed to be of interest to all students interested in the contemporary United States, as well as to provide the groundwork for further specialized study in this area. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

74103. Reading the American dream

This course provides a multidisciplinary introduction to the various myths comprising the American dream from the time of settlement to the modern period. The course will use primary documents and film to provide the groundwork. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

Business

Candidates may select either 12103 or 12104 but not both. Candidates who intend to follow accounting and finance courses offered by the School of Business in the second and third years must have taken 12103 in the first year.

12103. Introduction to accounting

The course will cover the principles of double entry book-keeping, the interpretation of financial statements, the issues raised by corporate regulation, and the use of management information for decision making. Assessment: 30% coursework, 70% examination.

12104. Introduction to management

This course is designed as an introduction to the study of business management. It provides an introductory overview of the 'process' perspective of management, which includes planning, decision -making, control, feedback and other concepts useful to management in their problem-solving activities. The students will also be introduced to the main functional areas of management. Some basic features of the business environment and work organization will also be covered.

Computer Science

Candidates may select either 23246 or 23129 but not both.

23246. Computer concepts and programming

This course introduces the basic computing concepts and the art of computer programming. Contents include: basic concepts and vocabulary of computers and information processing; overview of hardware and software components of computer systems; techniques for the design and construction of computer programmes; use of C++ language to solve problems over a wide range of applications.

Examination: One three-hour written paper.

23129. Computer concepts and applications

The course will acquaint students with information technology (IT) from several perspectives, including computer hardware and software, the history of computing, emerging technologies and computer programming concepts. In addition, students will acquire personal computing skills using word processing, electronic spreadsheets and presentation software.

English Centre

77100. English for academic communication

The course prepares students to respond effectively to the communicative demands of academic study in English. Through text-based activities in class and investigative project work related to language and disciplinary issues, the course develops abilities to analyse and evaluate extended texts, and to produce clear and coherent spoken and written discourses. It also emphasizes careful revision and editing of essays and project reports to ensure that lexical and grammatical choices are correct and appropriate. Assessment: 100% coursework.

English

Candidates may select either 03118 or 03119, but not both. These two courses are open automatically to students with grades of A, B or C in the Use of English Examination. Students with a D7 may request a special interview to be held in September, though only in exceptional cases will they be accepted.

03118. Introduction to English linguistics

An introduction to the study of English in Hong Kong and the world, and to linguistic topics and techniques. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

03119. Introduction to literary studies in English

The course focuses on selected works of English and American literature and film, with the aim of giving students an understanding of form, major genres, and a basic critical vocabulary, and some sense of literary and critical approaches. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

Fine Arts

Candidates may take either 04112 or 04113 but not both. Also see introduction to second- and third -year courses in Fine Arts.

04112. Introduction to western art history

This course will introduce students to the art of Europe, from the periods of ancient Greek and Roman civilization to the art of the twentieth century. Major developments in painting, sculpture and architecture will be studied, with the aim of giving students an understanding of the main characteristics of the art produced, and the relationship of art to the culture in which it was created. No previous knowledge of art history is assumed. Assessment: 40% coursework and a one and one-half hour examination (60%).

04114. Introduction to Asian art history

This course will center on the arts of China, from its earliest manifestations through a variety of art forms including pottery, bronzes, sculpture, painting, calligraphy, and ceramics. The course will place Chinese art as it interacts with India and Central Asia, and include discussion of the transmission of certain traditions to Japan. The course will incorporate lectures by those specialising in other fields of Asian art, with a view to providing the student with an overview of some major developments in these regions. No previous knowledge of art history is assumed. Assessment: 40% coursework and a one and one-half hour examination (60%).

Geography and Geology

Students may select only one of the three courses 05116, 05118 or 05119, as listed below. 05116 is a prerequisite course for students intending to take eight geography courses in their second- and third -year studies, whereas 05118 and 05119 are non-prerequisite courses.

05116. Human geography

This is an introductory course about the changing landscape of human activities. It consists of six major components: population structure, economic structure, political structure, social structure, settlement structure, and spatial planning. Emphasis will be placed on the interaction between human beings and the physical environment. The purpose is to assist students to better understand the patterns, processes and problems of human-environment interaction in our ever changing world.

05118. Computer mapping and analytical tools

The course takes the practical approach to achieving a comparative understanding of the appropriateness and strengths of different mapping and statistical approaches in highlighting spatial events and their presentation. The lectures will cover fundamental concepts underlying different mapping/analytical techniques, their strengths, limitations, and application settings. The practicals will be devoted to imparting essential computer operating skills to present spatial data by cartographic or statistical procedures. Assessment: 60% coursework, 40% project.

05119. Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta

This course provides students with a fundamental understanding of the physical and human environment of Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta and the linkages between the two areas. After an introduction to the major physical features, a range of contemporary issues such as demographic structure and changes, economic development, industrialization, urbanization, housing, planning will be examined. It will conclude with a discussion on development problems and their possible solutions. This is an independent course which can be taken by students from various disciplines. Assessment: 100% examination.

History

06130. Introduction to Western history

This course will be offered in the first semester and is aimed at students who wish to acquaint themselves with the skills and methods of the historian. The course develops important transferable skills such as analytical and critical reasoning, lateral thinking and communication skills in a range of learning situations. Emphasis is placed on interaction between students and teachers at both the group and individual level. The courework will focus on themes and issues in the nineteenth-century Western world. Assessment: 75% coursework, 25% examination.

06131. Introduction to Asian history

This course will be offered in the second semester and is aimed at students who wish to acquaint themselves with the skills and methods of the historian. The course develops important transferable skills such as analytical and critical reasoning lateral thinking and communication skills in a range of learning situations. Emphasis is placed on interaction between students and teachers at both the group and individual level. The coursework will focus on themes and issues in the nineteenth-century Asian world. Assessment: 75% coursework, 25% examination.

Japanese Studies

Candidates may select either 88102 or 88103 but not both. There is no departmental prerequisite for admission to Japanese language I (a). However, a quota may be set in order to ensure an appropriate environment for language learning.

88102. Introduction to Japanese culture

This is an introductory course to all aspects of Japanese culture, taught by means of tutorials. Its contents will cover the geography and history of Japan, its language, religion, art and literature, as well as certain aspects of its contemporary social organization. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

88103. Japanese language I (a)

This course is open to first- and second-year students with no previous knowledge of the language. The course provides a balanced training in reading, writing, speaking and listening and is intended to help students build linguistic and communicative skills in Japanese. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

Language Centre

Candidates may select either 86166 or 86167 but not both. The number of places in the groups is limited in order to ensure an appropriate environment for language learning. The written examinations are normally held in mid-April of the academic year.

86166. French I

This course is only taught in the second semester. The intention is to provide students with a good foundation in both written and oral contemporary French. By the end of the course, students are expected to be able to handle a number of practical situations as well as to produce elementary pieces of texts in the language. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination. Examination: Two-hour paper, oral examination.

86167. German I

This course is only taught in the second semester. Students will be made familiar with the sound system of German and they will acquire structures that allow them to follow simple dialogues and to express themselves in simple statements. The course will provide the students with a basic understanding of both spoken and written German. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination. Examination: Two -hour paper, oral examination.

Linguistics

B0101. Introduction to linguistics

Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of linguistic inquiry: sounds and sound patterns, word formation, sentence structure, organization of meaning, and language change. This course will illustrate how linguists approach their subject matter through investigation of such topics as children's language, dialectal variation, writing systems, foreign accents, and language and the brain. Students will gain insight into the general structure underlying all language as well as the diversity of linguistic structure. The course provides a basis for further linguistic study with practice in generalization, argumentation, and data analysis for a wide variety of languages. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

Mathematics

Candidates may select either 24118 or 24119 or 24303.

24118. Mathematics for social sciences: course I.1

The Department of Mathematics does not allow candidates with a pass in Advanced Supplementary Level Mathematics and Statistics or Advanced Level Pure Mathematics to take this course. Such students are however eligible to take either 24119 or 24303.

The course is intended for students who wish to use mathematics as a tool and have done little mathematics since Form 5.

24119. Mathematics for social sciences: course I.2

The course introduces students to the basic techniques of mathematics. It is intended for students who wish to use mathematics as a tool.

24303. Mathematics for social sciences: course II

The course is specially designed for social sciences students. It will show how the methods of calculus and of linear mathematics may be applied in many fields of the social sciences. It covers: The real number system; limits and continuous functions; infinite series; vector spaces; matrices; differentials and partial derivatives of functions of several variables; extremum problems; double integrals; Gamma and Beta functions; difference equations; differential equations.

Prerequisites: 24118, 24119 or a pass in Advanced Level Pure Mathematics, or its equivalent.

Music

Candidates may select only one from the following courses.

08109. Introduction to the musics of the world

This course which is open to all students introduces a range of music from throughout the world and discusses issues raised by cross-cultural research. The course will also introduce students to research methods and techniques appropriate to the subject. Practical performance is also included in the course. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

08113. Introduction to music in western culture

This course, which to open to all students, focuses on a number of set musical works in order to explore the history of western art music. Students are required to submit a portfolio containing critical reviews of books, recordings and departmental concerts related to the topics discussed in the course. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

08112. Introduction to performance

This course is for students who do not intend to take music as a major in the second and third year. Students must prepare short performances on a chosen instrument and participate in one of the Department's performing ensembles. The course includes study of basic performance concepts. Assessment: 20% coursework, 35% recital, 30% examination, 15% participation in ensemble.

08114. Fundamentals of music and music technology

This course, which is open to all students, is in two sections: a hands-on introduction to the use of music technology including music notation, sequencing, synthesizer techniques, CD-ROM interactive learning and music making; an introduction to the main elements of music melody, rhythm, harmony, texture, timbre and articulation as they occur in popular music, world music, and Western classical music. The acquisition of music literacy skills will be partly taught by computer-assisted self-study. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

08115. Harmony and structure of music

This course introduces students to the basics of functional harmony, voice-leading and counterpoint and the role that these and other elements of music play in articulating structure in both Western and non -Western music. Entrance to this course is on the basis of a short diagnostic test. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

Philosophy

The Department offers five first-year courses in philosophy which differ in their focus. Students may select any one of the following five courses (07123 is not a prerequisite for 2nd- and 3rd-year courses). There is no departmental prerequisite for admission to any of these courses. Students taking any of these courses are required to learn elementary logic by playing with a computer programme.

07108. Introduction to philosophy: science and inquiry

The course covers conceptions of inquiry in various sciences from ancient to modern times, and investigates how reason and experience contribute to our understanding of the world and ourselves. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

07102. Introduction to philosophy: the human mind

The course deals with philosophical problems about the mind, about such topics as consciousness, thinking, feeling, believing and dreaming. We shall look at such questions as: Are human minds physical objects?; Is it possible to build a computer that thinks? Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

07103. Introduction to philosophy: ethics and politics

The course aims to provide a general introduction to moral and political philosophy. We shall discuss such topics as justice, Confucianism, human rights, democracy, Marxism, feminism, and the liberal -communitarian debate. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

07104. Introduction to philosophy: Chinese and Western thought

The course covers the historical development of philosophical thought in China and the West. Topics may range from Confucianism, Daoism, Greek rationalism, British Empiricism, and Existentialism to Pragmatism, Maoism, Zen Buddhism, and positivism. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

07123. The elements of logic

The topics for this course include critical thinking and formal logic. We shall look at basic principles of reasoning, and see how they can be applied in philosophical and scientific discussions. In the rest of the course we shall study formal logic such as propositional and predicate logic. (This course is also open to second- and third-year students.) Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

Physics

25137. Nature of the Universe

This course is specially designed as an elective for first-year students in all disciplines and is aimed at developing an awareness of the underlying physical aspects of the universe in which we find ourselves. It is a totally self-contained course that does not lead to any further second-year or third-year courses. Focusing particularly on astronomy, it will also provide students with a more profound understanding of the nature of matter, energy and space and equip them with a modern view of the structure and dynamical behaviour of the universe. The course is also available to interested students from other years.

Second and Third Years

Economics and Finance

11001 is a prerequisite for all second- and third-year courses.

11101 or 11111, and 11102 or 11112 are compulsory courses for students intending to take four or more courses in Economics and Finance in their second and third years. Except with special permission from the Head of Economics and Finance, students shall take courses 11101 or 11111, and 11102 or 11112 during the second year.

For the Final Examination students may take courses in Economics and Finance in combination with courses from any other department or departments, subject to approval by the relevant Heads and to the regulations and timetable constraints. All courses are examined at the end of the year in which they are taken.

The examination and coursework weightings shall be in the ratio of 60:40 unless otherwise specified.

Not all the courses listed below will necessarily be offered every year.

Second-year Courses

11101. Microeconomic theory

The laws of demand, supply, returns, and costs; price and output determination in different market situations; theory of factor pricing and income distribution; general equilibrium; interest and capital.

11102. Macroeconomic theory

Theories of income, employment, and the price level; analysis of secular growth and business fluctuations; introduction to monetary and fiscal policy.

11111. Microeconomics

Examine microeconomic issues with applications. Topics include: consumer behaviour, cost structure, market structure, theory of the firm, factor market and general equilibrium.

(Open only to non-BEcon and non-BFin students.)

11112. Macroeconomics

Economics of inflation; unemployment; income and output determination in the short run and the long run. Money, interest rates and exchange rates. Macroeconomic stabilization policies and open economy macroeconomic issues.

(Open only to non-BEcon and non-BFin students.)

Second- or Third-year Courses

11103. The economics of human resources

Investment in human capital; the economics of the family and of discrimination; wage determination and the operation of the labour market; the choice of labour contracts.

11104. Public finance

Government revenue and expenditure; resource allocation between the public and private sectors; the fiscal system and internal and external stability; fiscal policy for growth and development; adjustments to budget policy; and analysis of some major forms of taxation.

11105. The economics of consumption behaviour

Economic theories of consumption behaviour, from micro to macro levels. Constraints upon choice. Preference maximization and duality. Static demand analysis and demand systems. Separable preferences. Aggregation of preferences. Choice over time and the life cycle hypothesis. Integrated models of consumption and labour supply. Dynamic demand systems. Choice under uncertainty. The Euler equation approach to macroeconomic consumption behaviour. Consumption-based models of asset pricing. The problem of durables. Rational expectations.

11106. Games and decisions

The course offers an introduction to the theory of games and decision making under uncertainty, illustrated by examples from specialized branches of economics. Topics may include: expected utility theory, moral hazard and adverse selection, bargaining over the division of a good, models of auctions and bidding behaviour, and the theory of repeated interaction.

11107. History of economic thought

A survey of the major analytical writings of economists from Smith to immediately after the Second World War, with emphasis placed on Smith, Ricardo, Marx, Jevons, Marshall, and Keynes.

11201. Money and banking

Principles of money and banking; measurement of monetary aggregates; central banking and commercial banking; money supply process; instruments, effects and practices of monetary policy.

11202. European financial history

A survey of the development of money, banking and financial institutions in Europe from early times to the twentieth century. Topics such as bimetallism, the silver standard, the gold standard, inflation and monetary reconstruction after the Napoleonic, First World War and Second World War will also be discussed.

11203. Money and financial markets

Money and asset markets; financial sector equilibrium; level and term structure of interest rates; level and growth rate of money and financial assets; transmission of money shocks; theory of monetary policy; money, assets and growth.

11206. Capital theory

General equilibrium theory involving time under certainty conditions. The concepts of full information, stationary state, and steady state. Assumptions about information costs, transaction costs and complete markets. Fisher's separation theorem. Theory of consumption over discrete and continuous time. Theory of production over discrete and continuous time. Determination of general equilibrium over time. Intertemporal prices and interest rates.

(Note: Not open to students who have taken 38002).

11204. The economics of finance

A survey of the economic theory underlying corporate and investment finance models, with emphasis on financial instruments. Topics include: balance sheet management and evaluation, capital market equilibrium and efficiency, evolution of credit and money market instruments like financial swaps, stocks and bonds, financial futures and options. Eurocurrencies and the role played by banks, insurance companies and other financial institutions.

11205. Theories of investment

Applications of the theory of choice over time (capital theory) to the investment decisions of individuals, firms and economies, under different assumptions regarding certainty, uncertainty, and adjustment costs.

11301. Theory of international trade

The theory of international trade; the bases, direction, terms, volume, and gains of trade. The effects of tariffs, quantitative restrictions, and international integration.

11302. International finance

The interpretation of balance of payments and the adjustment to national and international equilibria, through changes in price levels, exchange rates, and national income. Other topics may include: foreign exchange market and Eurocurrency market, alternative exchange rate regimes, capital movements, exchange controls, and international monetary organizations.

11303. Open economy macroeconomics

Topics in the macroeconomics of interdependent economies, which may include: asset market approach to exchange rate and balance of payments determination; rational expectations econometric analysis of exchange markets; game-theoretical analysis of interdependence; international economic policy coordination; devaluation, stabilization and developing countries; international financial integration and regulation.

11401. Comparative economic systems

Alternative approaches to the understanding of the operation of economic systems, including an approach based on different structures of property rights.

11402. Industrial organization

Study of the pricing and output decisions of firms under conditions of less than perfect competition or monopoly; theories of oligopoly and monopolistic competition; information costs and advertising; examination of pricing practices such as price discrimination, tie-in selling, predatory pricing and resale price maintenance.

11403. The economics of property rights

Implications of different structures of property rights for economic behaviour; rights structures classified in terms of exclusivity and transferability; costs of enforcing rights and of forming contracts as main constraints in the derivation of hypotheses; the Coase Theorem and the theories associated with contracting and with the dissipation of rent.

11404. Topics in economic history

This course consists of case studies from history to illustrate the development of institutions via the neoinstitutional economics approach.

11405. The economics of law

Economic analysis applied to law. Topics may include: efficiency of law, rules of liability, tort rights and remedies, criminal sanction, legislative processes as resource allocating and income distributing mechanisms.

11406. The economy and the state

Economic analysis is applied to the study of public choice and the relationship between the state and the economy. Topics include: social choice, collective action, voting and elections, interest groups, bureaucracy, constitutions, law and courts, property rights and institutional change.

11501. Economic development: theory and policy

Characteristics of underdevelopment; factors in economic development; theoretical and policy aspects of development.

11502. Urbanization and economic development

Location decisions and agglomeration; system of cities and urban hierarchy; income and employment of cities: determination, fluctuations, and variation; economics of city size. Urban growth analysis; growth of cities, regions, and national economic development. Urbanization in the developing world; cities and growth in East Asia; urban policy in China.

11503. Urban economic problems

Study of urban problems and urban economics, with emphasis on microeconomic theory using elementary calculus. Topics covered: cost-benefit analysis and urban problems, urban public finance and fiscal federalism, urban transportation economics, housing market, theory of land rent and land use, environmental economics and pollution.

Co-requisite/Prerequisite: 11101 or 11111.

11504. Transportation economics

Microeconomic theory applied to transportation, with emphasis placed on intercity freight and passenger transportation. Topics include: cost function approach to transport supply, economies of scale and traffic density, structure of demand among discrete modal choices, value of time, forecasting of demand and modal split, optimal pricing and investment in infrastructure, contestable markets and the theory of network competition, and regulation of rates, entry and exit.

11601. Economic development of China

An analytical study of the major problems in China's economic development since 1949. Topics include: economic heritage, development strategy, economic organization, planning, management, reform, and an evaluation of the Chinese experiments.

11602. Foreign trade and investment in China

This course has three parts: China trade, Chinese financial markets and direct investment in China. For China trade, topics include structure and trend of Chinese exports and imports, reform of Chinese foreign trade regime, foreign exchange rate regime, and China's role in the new trade environment under the World Trade Organization. For Chinese financial markets emphasis will be placed on Chinese financial institutions and markets including: the central banking system, the commercial banking industry, government and corporate debt markets, the stock market, and the foreign exchange market. For direct investment, theories of corporate finance and corporate governance will be used to analyse the behaviour of Chinese enterprises and the implications of such behaviour for foreign joint ventures. Government regulations will also be covered.

11603. The economic system of Hong Kong

Various aspects of the economic system of Hong Kong: its economic structure, the public sector, monetary system and banking, foreign trade and balance of payments, industry, labour and the service sector, land and housing, and economic relations with China.

11604. The Japanese economy

A survey of the contemporary Japanese economy.

11701. Introductory econometrics

This course is an elementary introduction to basic empirical techniques. Topics include: the linear regression model, model specification, properties of the linear model under alternative assumptions, dynamic and simultaneous equation models.

11702. Mathematical methods in economics

A survey of the application of basic mathematical techniques in the analysis of economic problems.

11703. Mathematical economics

Modern economic theory treated mathematically. Topics may include: applications of optimization to choice theory, applications of the implicit function theorem to comparative statics, applications of differential and difference equations to stability of equilibrium, applications of linear mathematics and fixed point theorems to Leontief and Arrow-Debreu models.

11704. Applications of econometrics

A survey of empirical work in economics. Topics may vary from year to year, and include: the consumption function, the investment function, the demand for money, and simultaneous equation models.

Candidates are required to offer an original project paper in lieu of a written paper in the Final Examination, and it must be presented not later than May 31 of the academic year in which the teaching programme ends. Candidates shall submit a statement that the project paper represents their own work (or in the case of joint work, a statement countersigned by their co-worker(s), which shows the degree of their work) undertaken after registration in the course.

Prerequisite: 11701 or 17203 .

11705. General equilibrium theory

A survey of general equilibrium theory, without advanced mathematics whenever possible. Topics include: geometry and applications of the two sector model; existence and stability of equilibrium in n -good models; efficiency properties of general equilibrium.

38102. Financial markets and institutions

General equilibrium of asset markets. The efficient market hypothesis and criticisms. Different assumptions about the behaviour of asset prices. Term structure of interest rates. General aspects of financial markets and their institutional structure. Topics to be covered under this head include: money markets, bond markets, equity (stock) market, forward markets, futures markets, forex markets, insurance markets and others.

38103. International banking

Nature of international banking. Comparison with domestic banking. Jurisdiction and regulatory framework: the Basle Concordat. Xeno-currency markets and international banking. International financing techniques: loan syndication, project financing, NIFs, RUFs etc. Risk exposure and control: sovereign risk, country risk, exchange risk, interest risk and credit risk. Management and strategies of international banks. 'National treatment' and financial centres.

38104. Management of commercial banks

This course introduces basic bank management techniques that include: asset and liability management, liquidity and reserve management, credit analysis, loan pricing and off-balance-sheet banking. Regulatory issues of commercial banks are also discussed.

38301. Derivative securities

Derivatives markets. Forwards, futures and options on commodities, equities, bonds and their economic roles; derivative investment and hedging strategies; pricing and hedging of derivatives securities.

38302. Corporate finance

Theories and analysis of corporate valuation; cost of capital; capital structure; leasing; mergers and acquisitions; options; warrants; and convertible bonds.

38401. Empirical finance

This course is a survey of the empirical research methods used most often in the analysis of financial markets and how they are applied to actual market data. Topics may include: tests of asset pricing and term structure models, efficient markets hypothesis, and event study methodology.

Prerequisite: 11701.

38402. Mathematical finance

Arbitrage Theory. Properties of the portfolio frontier. Two fund separation. Valuation of state contingent claims. Derivative assets analysis. Multiperiod securities markets. Differential information.

Prerequisites: 24303 and 17328.

38501. Asian financial institutions

History and institutional aspects of financial markets in Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, Taiwan and China. Regulatory policies and practices.

Third-year Courses

11108. Selected topics in price theory

Alternative meanings of economic efficiency, the specification of constraints for hypothesis testing, the problem of social cost, the dissipation of rent, the theory of the firm and the state, and/or other topics selected by the lecturer(s).

Prerequisites: 11101 or 11111 and 11102 or 11112.

11801/38601. Reading course

This course consists of supervised reading and written work. Candidates may specialize in one topic under the supervision of a lecturer(s). Examples of topics are: the problem of social cost, investment in human capital, general equilibrium theory, empirical methods in international trade, international monetary relations, theories of saving and the East Asian economies, and current economic problems of Hong Kong.

An original project paper is required in lieu of a written paper in the Final Examination. It shall not exceed 10,000 words in length, and must be completed and presented not later than May 31 of the third year of the curriculum. Candidates shall submit a statement that the project papers represent their own work (or in the case of joint work, a statement countersigned by their co-worker(s), which shows the degree of their works) undertaken after the registration in the course.

11802/38602. Dissertation (double course)

Candidates may write dissertations under the supervision of a lecturer(s). Topics offered may vary from year to year, depending on the research interests of the staff. A satisfactory dissertation may be offered in lieu of two papers in the Final Examination.

Candidates must submit the titles and outlines of their dissertations for approval by the Head of School of Economics and Finance not later than January 1 of the third year of the curriculum, and the dissertations, which should not exceed 20,000 words in length, shall be completed and presented not later than May 31 of that academic year.

38105. International financial management

The international corporation and its environment. Forex markets. Forex risk management. International working capital management. International treasury management. Foreign investment and capital budgeting. International financial markets: Euro-currency, Euro-bond, and Euro-notes markets.

Politics and Public Administration

Either 13101 or 13102 is normally a prerequisite for all second- and third-year courses.

The examination and coursework weightings shall be in the ratio of 70:30 unless otherwise specified.

Second- or Third-year Courses

13225. Military intervention and military regimes

This course examines the role of the military in politics, particularly in Third World countries.

13240. Political theory

This course is an introduction to liberalism, which primarily concerns the proper scope of personal freedom and state power. Topics include liberty and autonomy, the harm principle, paternalism, legal moralism, liberal neutrality, utilitarian justifications of liberalism, and right-based justifications of liberalism.

13241. Contemporary political ideologies

An introduction to contemporary political thought in which a number of influential, but strongly contrasting, ideologies, such as the new right and the welfare state ideology, are studied. Many major issues in political theory, such as freedom, equality, welfare rights, and social justice, are involved in this debate and a study of these ideologies provides valuable conceptual and theoretical material with which to reflect upon present and future politics in Hong Kong.

13242. Marxism and political theory

This course provides an overview of contemporary Marxism. Topics include: dialectical and historical materialism; political economy; the theory of exploitation; classes, class consciousness and class struggle; and Marx's theory of politics. An attempt is made to discuss central debates in Marxian thought and to catch their dynamic development, given historical changes in current socialism.

13243. The government and politics of United States of America

The United States is often described as a pluralistic-democratic system. In this course, we test that claim. Areas covered include the constitution, the electoral system, Congress, the Presidency and the Judiciary. Such issues as civil rights and contentious aspects of defence and foreign policy are also studied.

13310. The government and politics of the United Kingdom

A general survey of British government and politics with detailed examination of the way in which the major institutions, such as the Cabinet, Parliament and the bureaucracy, have adapted to change.

13244. Political behaviour

Key concepts in political and electoral behaviour, such as political culture, socialization, participation, recruitment, communication and power, are described and analysed in this course. The introduction of direct elections in Hong Kong provides an opportunity to test hypotheses about electoral behaviour developed elsewhere against local experience and use is made of electoral survey research material which has been generated by the department.

13245. International politics

The themes of conflict and co-operation are central to the study of international politics. In this course, they are applied to such areas as strategic studies, foreign policy analysis and the study of international organizations. Consideration is also given to general theories of international politics such as power theory, the balance of power, and integration theories. At the end of the semester, students may participate in crisis simulation exercises.

13316. Issues in public administration

This course offers an opportunity for students to examine current issues in public administration, particularly those facing the Hong Kong government.

13247. Approaches to foreign policy analysis

The process by which states arrive at foreign policy positions is the central focus of this course. Examples will be drawn largely from the USA, China and the United Kingdom. Major crises and events will be studied in some detail to underline the action reaction nature of foreign policy. The course is intended for those who have studied International politics in a previous semester.

Prerequisite: 13245.

13212. Comparative foreign policy analysis

Emphasis in this course is placed on a limited number of state systems to allow greater empirical testing of the approaches and theories outlined in 13247 .

13263. Policy process

This course seeks to introduce students to the study of the policy process by examining (1) some of the major approaches and perspectives involved; (2) the critical stages in the course of policy development; and (3) the political nature of policy-making. Public policy-making is perceived as being structured by power relations in society as well as manipulated by various interests concerned with policy outputs and outcomes. The ultimate question asked is: how are public policies made?

13249. Urbanization and urban poverty

This course considers specific policy problems related to the phenomenal growth of urbanization and urban poverty in the Third World. The starting point is a perusal of current World Bank and United Nations reports. Topics include: contending approaches to understanding the urban socio-economic structure; urban politics and social movements; 'peripheral' capitalist versus socialist urbanizations; housing policy; basic needs and human development strategies. The unit emphasizes the social, political and economic constraints on the state in formulating development policy.

13264. Problems of the Third World

This course will consider a range of concrete problems which have assumed primacy in the political, economic and social experience of Third World countries. Issues discussed will include: poverty; population; debt; colonialism; politics; democratization and gender questions; the new international economic order.

13215. Political science methodology

A study of the concepts and theories which are employed in political research.

13216. A special topic in political science

This course is offered from time to time. Students should consult the Department on the content of the unit on offer.

13251. Issues in contemporary Chinese politics

An overview of some recent policy changes in China which are studied in the light of two main themes: the different ways in which political power is manifested, and the changing perceptions of ways in which governance of the state can best be effected: and to what ends.

13252. Hong Kong politics

This course focuses on the legal and institutional structure of the Hong Kong government and the public sector, including likely changes after 1997. The political culture and attitudes of the Hong Kong people are discussed, and also pressure groups and political parties.

13253. Public personnel administration

This course examines the role and practice of public personnel management in comparative perspective. Topics include recruitment and selection, promotion, training, wage-determination and public sector unions with particular reference to Hong Kong, China, and the USA.

13323. Public financial administration

An examination of aspects of public financial planning and control in which examples are drawn from various countries, including Hong Kong.

13230. A special topic in political theory

Each year (if possible) a political theory course will be offered under this heading. The topic chosen will depend upon the interests of staff and students. Students should consult the Department on the content of the course on offer.

13325. Public administration in the People's Republic of China

An examination of the context of public administration in contemporary China, in which party and state institutions, public personnel management, and the formation and implementation of public policy are considered.

13326. Government and politics of Japan

This course is a survey of the institutions and processes of Japan's domestic politics, its administrative system and foreign, especially trade relations.

13328. Ethics and public affairs

This course explores the relationship between moral philosophy and public administration. Three central questions are examined: (1) On what basis should limited resources in society be distributed? (2) What constitutes moral conduct on the part of public officials? and (3) What is the proper balance between government's coercive authority and individual liberty?

13254. Politics of international trade

This course examines the interplay between economics and politics in international relations. It focuses on the political dimension of world trade problems with special reference to the Asia-Pacific region. One important theme is how Pacific rim countries respond to competing policy priorities in their pursuit of wealth, international security and political order. The course also explores specific trade issues such as new protectionism, the role of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT)/the World Trade Organization (WTO) in the world trade system, and major trade problems between East Asian countries and United States.

13255. Chinese foreign policy

This course provides an overview of Chinese foreign policy since 1949. It introduces students to an analytical framework in understanding the development of China's foreign policies. Alternative explanations to foreign policy decisions will be explored, with special emphasis on the position of the People's Republic as a revolutionary socialist state in a changing international environment.

13236. Politics and the economy in Canada

A survey of the institutions and process of Canadian government with particular reference to the relationship between the economy and the political system.

13256. Public sector management

This course has two foci. The first is on the structure and operation of public organizations, with emphasis on such issues as the introduction of flexible forms of organization; and the adoption of corporatization and privatization strategies. The second is on the activities and functions of managers in public organizations. Emphasis is on the institutional contexts and various managerial skills that might affect the effectiveness of public managers.

13265. Introduction to Chinese politics

This course is an introduction to contemporary Chinese politics. Its main objective is to examine the ideology, structures and processes of the contemporary Chinese political system and to explore the socio-economic consequences, achievements, and problems of Chinese communism.

13266. Politics of economic reform in China

Politics and economics are often closely related, but such connections are especially salient in socialist political systems. This course aims to analyse the interactions between politics and economic policies in contemporary China. The focus is on the political debates over economic reform policies since 1978, the rationale of these economic reforms and their socio-economic and political implications.

13259. China and Hong Kong: the politics of transition

The development of relations between China and Hong Kong since 1979 is critical to an understanding of Hong Kong's current political problems. This course focuses on the Sino-British negotiations, the Joint Declaration, the Basic Law and issues of autonomy, representative government and civil liberties.

13260. Political economy

An introductory survey of the main contending schools of political economy in which 'Positive', Marxist and international political economy theories are discussed, and differentiated one from the other. Such theories are grounded in illustrative country case studies.

13261. Bureaucracy and the public

This course examines the political, legal and social dimensions of interaction between bureaucracies and the public. Consideration will be given to the effectiveness of complaint-handling institutions, such as the ombudsman, Freedom of Information Acts, secrecy provisions and the roles played by street-level bureaucrats.

13262. European politics

This course seeks to examine specific aspects of the remarkable changes taking place in both Eastern and Western Europe. Students should consult the Department for further information on the course since the content may vary from year to year.

13267. Public administration in Hong Kong

Hong Kong has been described as an administrative state. Public administration predominates in both policy-making and policy implementation. This is very different from the role assigned to public administration in the classic politics/administration dichotomy. It is also a unique feature of public administration in Hong Kong.

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to:

13268. Development and underdevelopment

This course will survey the prevailing theories in social science related to the issue of how countries achieve 'development' in the contemporary world. The emphasis will be on the countries of the South. Topics will expand upon variegated versions of: modernization theory, dependency, imperialism and the world economy, world-systems analysis, the State, and development strategies.

13269. United States foreign policy and East Asia

This course examines the nature, formulation, execution and administration of American foreign policy in East Asia.

13270. Gender and politics in the Third World

This course introduces a gender dimension to the study of Third World politics. It traces the development of gender concerns in development theory and practice in the last two decades, and explores in greater depth the key themes that are especially relevant to Hong Kong today.

13271. Thesis in politics or public administration (double course)

The thesis will consist of an investigation into a relevant aspect of politics or public administration which must be chosen in consultation with the supervisor before July 1 in the year preceding the final examination. The thesis must be submitted before April 1 of the following year.

13272. The political economy of the European Union

This course examines the political and economic dimension of the European Union. It will include a consideration of its political history, structure, policies and the effects of the market on national politics and economics.

13274. Government and business

The course seeks to introduce students to the relationship between government and business, with special reference to Hong Kong. The course will examine the role of the state in economic development, the consultative system in Hong Kong, and the roles of interest groups in the policy process.

13276. The Government and politics of industrialized countries

This course studies the government and politics of industrialized countries, such as the United States and the United Kingdom. Areas covered include the parliament, executive, constitution, electoral system, judiciary, bureaucracy and the party system. Comparisons with other industrialized countries, like Japan, will be made.

13277. East Asian political economy

This course aims to examine the political processes that underlie the rapid economic transformation of East Asian countries. We will mainly cover Japan and the newly industrializing economies, namely Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and South Korea, but comparisons with China and other emerging economies such as Malaysia and Thailand will also be made. We will first introduce the salient features of the East Asian model of development and we will then analyse the pattern of political development, the relations between the state and other political actors, the development of administrative system, as well as the impact of international relations and strategic factors on the domestic political and economic processes of these cases.

07327. Seminar in political philosophy

This course, taught by staff of the Department of Politics and Public Administration and the Department of Philosophy, provides an opportunity to study in some depth some of the most recent issues and developments in political philosophy. These issues include recent theories of justice, communitarian critique of liberalism, and ethical issues in global politics such as distributive justice between states, justice between generations, environmental ethics, international enforcement of human rights, and other issues which may be considered appropriate.

Students wishing to take this course must satisfy prerequisites to be specified each year in the departmental booklet. Assessment: 100% coursework.

Psychology

Second- or Third-year Courses

Category A

14215. A 2. Cognitive psychology

This course covers how humans learn to deal with information from the environment. Topics include various aspects of perception, memory, concept structure and learning, and thinking. Students will be involved in conducting experiments on cognitive functioning as part of the coursework.

14219. A 3. Life-span developmental psychology

This course provides an introduction to developmental psychology from a life-span perspective. The topics include: basic concepts and theories of human development; research methodology and issues in the study of developmental change; biological, environmental and social influences on development; processes of physical development over the life-span; attachment and emotional development; development of perception, language, cognition and morality; development of personality and social relationships.

¹  Students may take both of these courses but only one may count as a core course.

14245. A 4. Psychology of personality

This course will critically examine and attempt a synthesis of a number of theories of personality as exemplified in the lives of some of the significant figures in the field. The relationship of specific theories to practical applications, personality assessment and psychotherapeutic techniques may be included. The major aims of the course are to provide a survey of the breath and complexity of this field and to provide a perspective from which to examine assumptions about human nature and the evaluation of behaviour.

14246. A 5. Fundamentals of social psychology

The course gives an overview of the field which studies the behaviour of individuals in social contexts. It covers social perception, social cognition, social motivation, attitudes and attitude change, attitude and behaviour, aggression, helping, moral behaviour, social influence on individual behaviour, and group dynamics. The effects of Chinese culture on various social behaviours will form the part of the discussion.

14206. A 6. Research methods in psychology I

This course adopts a practical approach to teaching the fundamental aspects of research techniques in psychology. It is designed to provide students with the necessary background for their own independent research into areas of psychological interest. The techniques of experimental design, the logic of statistical inference and scientific explanation and their relations to human values, the limitations of, and alternatives to, experimental approaches to the study of psychological phenomena will all be discussed.

14341. A 7. Thesis in psychology

(For students taking eight or more courses in Psychology.)

Preferably an empirical investigation of a psychological problem chosen in consultation with a supervisor before July 1 in the year preceding the final examination and completed before the start of the second semester. The study should be completed in itself; for example it may consist of the replication of a study done elsewhere in order to throw further light on the discussion by bringing in material which is available because of the particular situation in Hong Kong; or a basic investigation of a social or experimental phenomenon which has attracted the attention of the investigator. The possibilities are legion. Some formal instruction in preparing a research proposal may be offered.

Prerequisites: Four courses from Category A.

14223. A 8. History and issues in psychology

An examination of some of the major issues and controversies in the history of psychology which are important for the current debate and its continuation.

14248. A 9. Biological psychology

This course provides an introduction to biological aspects of behaviour. The topics include: biological bases of behaviour, development, learning, memory, and abnormal psychology; the nervous system; processes of brain maturation; genetic influences; psychophysiology.

Category B

14214. B 10. Research methods in psychology II

This course is a follow-up of Research methods in psychology I . It provides a more in-depth analysis of the various quantitative and qualitative techniques used in psychological research. Students coming through the course should be able to conduct psychological research independently, and evaluate others' work critically. The course serves as a solid foundation for students to develop their logical thinking and ability to solve problems in a systematic manner.

Prerequisite: 14206.

14218. B 11. Advanced cognitive psychology

This course covers some recent approaches in the field of cognitive psychology. Topics may include the cognitive unconscious in perception and memory, conditioning versus cognitive learning in humans, neural networks and information processing, as well as other topics reflecting the interests of the teacher. Students will be introduced to first-hand experience in designing and conducing experiments using instruments and computers as part of the coursework.

Prerequisite: 14215.

14254. B 12. The person and the situation

This course provides an in-depth examination of two classic questions in personality and social psychology: What is social about social psychology? and Where is the person in personality psychology? By integrating research findings from experimental psychology, individual differences psychology and social psychology, this course seeks an integrative understanding of how an individual behaves in a social context. Topics include: person-situation interactions; interpersonal perception; stereotyping; intergroup dynamics; achievement motivation; psychology of the self; language use and interpersonal processes; cultural influences on cognition and behaviour. Assessment: 60% coursework, 40% examination.

Prerequisite: 14245 or 14246 .

14207. B 13. Psychological testing and measurement

This course surveys the major concepts and techniques in the field of psychometrics, and provides students with some hands-on experience with commonly used tests. Topics covered include: the context of testing and measurement; the testing process; test standardization; reliability and validity; intelligence and its appraisal; personality assessment; special domain testing; occupational applications; large-scale measurements; ethics and prospects.

14316. B 14. Introduction to abnormal psychology

This course will provide a broad exposure to both theory and practice in abnormal psychology. It will provide a useful background for those who wish to subsequently pursue professional training in mental health. Also it will provide the information and understanding required to make informed decisions about how to cope with the many social problems connected with mental disorders. A wide array of types of mental disorders will be examined ranging from pathological gambling to schizophrenia. Important themes will be emphasized such as the continuum in behaviour from mental health to mental illness, the diathesis-stress and nature-nurture models and epidemiology.

Prerequisite: 14245.

14224. B 15. Brain and behaviour

Research in physiological psychology has led to an increased understanding of how the brain is involved in the psychology of everyday behaviour. This course will address the basic mechanisms underlying the psychology of human behaviour and experience, starting with the assumption that all fundamental psychological processes have a physiological basis. The course further examines the case for a psychology based on studies of brain-behaviour relationships. Special topics of study will depend upon students' interests, but may include memory and learning, perception, attention and states of awareness, consciousness, meditation, sleep and dreaming, emotions, psychopathology. A knowledge of biology at Certificate of Education Level is required for this course.

14209. B 16. Advanced industrial/organizational psychology

This course will consider a few selected topics in industrial psychology relevant to the Hong Kong situation. Depending on students' interests, topics may include: staff turnover and retention, personnel selection, staff training and development, interpersonal perception, cross-cultural communication, accident prevention, and others. A major portion of the course will be in planning and execution of a project in an industrial or business organization. Through this first-hand experience, students will learn about applying psychological principles for solving practical problems encountered in work settings. Assessment: 60% coursework, 40% examination.

Prerequisite: 14313 or 14362 .

14360. B 17. Chinese psychology

This course explores the psychology of the Chinese people from 'a native's point of view'. Research literature reporting results using Chinese subjects will be reviewed and reinterpreted with a culturally derived meaning system. Students are encouraged to adopt this perspective to examine some indigenous phenomena in their research projects.

Prerequisite: 14246.

14354. B 18. Consumer psychology

This course examines the psychological processes underlying consumer buying behaviour, and the factors influencing these processes. Consumer behaviour are studied from five psychological perspectives: Motivational, information processing, attitude and attitude change, decision-making, and social symbolism. Students are encouraged to apply course content to real-life cases through tutorial exercises and term research projects.

14350. B 19. Cross-cultural psychology

The rationale, scope, and history of cross-cultural psychology. Conceptual issues and research methods. Cultural relativism and the search for universals. The emic-etic distinction. Comparability of test scores across cultures. Non-Western approaches and contributions. Cross-cultural studies in personality, cognition, social behaviour, and psychopathology. Current status, applications, and ethical issues.

Prerequisite: At least one course from Category A.

14313. B 20. Industrial psychology

This course will examine the application of psychological principles, theories, methods, and findings to the analysis of the complex interrelationships which exist between man, work, and organizations. Topics include personnel selection, training, work evaluation, man-machine systems, human performance, skill acquisition, stress, industrial mental health, human error and accidents.

Prerequisite: At least one course from Category A.

14212. B 21. Introduction to counselling and therapeutic psychology

Provides a theoretical foundation and practical experiences for students who wish to learn the fundamentals of counselling or to explore their potential for professional training in mental health. Considerable emphasis will be placed on experiential learning. Major approaches; skills and practice; ethics and limitations of counselling. Working with various clinical and non-clinical populations. Cultural values and socio-political contexts. Outcome and process research. Assessment: 100% coursework.

Prerequisite: 14245.

14327. B 22. Introduction to educational psychology

How does the work of Pavlov, Skinner, Piaget, Vygotsky, Erikson, Wechsler, Gardner and other psychologists apply to everyday life? This course will provide some answers, especially as they relate to learning, teaching and various educational settings. It will provide an active exploration of the practical implications of major psychological theories and research results as they apply to learning, instruction and the classroom setting. Other topics covered will be intelligence, creativity, memory and thinking; learners' individual and group differences, including special needs and their accommodation in the classroom and educational and psychological interventions in the schools. The course will be conducted using a cross-cultural perspective, with special reference to Hong Kong. Assessment: 70% coursework, 30% examination.

14346. B 23. Medical psychology

This course covers a number of aspects of medicine that are intimately related to psychology. It will examine aspects of medical practice and professionalism; however, the overall emphasis will be on psychological contributions to the disease process, and concepts of health and illness. Topics to be covered may include traditional psychosomatic disorders, stress and illness, drugs and drug addiction, pain, sleep disorders, psychosurgery, hospitalization of children and adults, doctor-patient communication, and cultural and psychological features of alternative medicine. The course will comprise an in-depth study of a few of these areas, chosen according to interests, complemented by a series of video-tapes, and incorporating a small group project in one area of interest.

14362. B 24. Organizational psychology

This course will examine the contextual and interactive relationships between man work and organizations. Topics covered will include: issues and methodology; theories and characteristics of organizations; motivation and satisfaction; leadership, group relations; environment, mobility and transport; stress and conflicts, organization design; cross-cultural analysis.

Prerequisite: 14246.

14244. B 25. Psychology and the arts

This course examines some psychological approaches to the study of the 'arts' defined very broadly and may include fine arts, photography, film, television, literature and music. The development of these practices will be briefly examined as will the possibilities for assessing the responses of the individual spectator, reader or listener to each of them.

14213. B 26. Psychology of adolescent development

This course deals with developmental changes in adolescence, considered from a systems perspective, with the person, the environment, and behaviour interacting over time. Topics to be covered include: methodological issues in studying adolescent development; changes in adolescent cognitive and intellectual functioning; personality and social development in adolescence.

Prerequisite: 14219.

14356. B 27. Psychology of adult development and aging

This course deals with developmental changes in adulthood. Psychological aging is considered from a systems perspective, with the person, the environment, health and behaviour interacting over time. Topics to be covered include: methodological issues in studying adult development; changes in adult cognitive and intellectual functioning; personality and social development in adulthood; death, dying, and bereavement.

Prerequisite: 14219.

14249. B 28. Psychology of human communication

This course is a laboratory course in applied social psychology. It examines the cognitive and interpersonal bases of human communication. Topics include: the cognitive and interpersonal processes involved in message formulation and comprehension; the communicative functions of nonverbal behaviour such as filled pauses and hand gestures; the cognitive and social consequences of language use; and social cognitive models of persuasive communication. Assessment: 60% coursework, 40% examination.

14344. B 29. Psychology of language and bilingualism

A study of the processes involved in language comprehension and production, including the acquisition of a native as well as second language. The cognitive bases of language learning and use, the psychology of reading and reading disabilities, the comparison of psychological aspects of the Chinese language and other languages. Cognitive functions of the bilingual, the bilingual brain, psychological factors in second language learning.

14211. B 30. Psychology of reading

This course examines the reading process and reading disability from an information processing perspective. Topics covered include visual acuity, pattern recognition, the unit of language perception, eye movement, phonological awareness, phonological recoding, the role of visual and auditory functions in reading and reading disability, and orthography differences in reading and reading disability.

14296. B 31. Engineering psychology

This course examines how knowledge in experimental/cognitive psychology is applied to the design of man-machine interface, tools, games, consumer products, etc. Students will appreciate how better designs lead to positive outcomes such as higher user satisfaction, lower accident rate, and lower job stress. Topics include human skills, motor theory, human-computer interaction, safety and health, work design, attention, and performance. Most recent psychological studies on advanced technologies such as virtual reality and three-dimensional displays will be introduced. Students will also learn from site visits how such designs are implemented in real settings.

14229. B 32. Advertising psychology

This course looks at different advertising techniques and their effectiveness, the characteristics of successful advertisements, motivation of the consumers, the cognitive process involved in purchase decision making as a function of advertising, the relationship between consumer lifestyle and advertising, advertising and culture.

14232. B 33. Psychology of calligraphy

This course discusses Chinese and Western calligraphic behaviour from the perspectives of perception, personality, cognition and development. Other considerations will include creative processes, abilities, and appreciation of calligraphic art. Assessment: 100% coursework.

14233. B 34. Psychology and religion

In this course issues arising from interface between psychology and religion will be examined. Topics to be covered may include: approaches to integrate psychological and theological perspectives; psychological and social correlates of religious experience; cults and occults; sin and guilt; religious orientations; religious decision-making; cognitive fallacy of the religious and the non-religious; relationships between religious beliefs and behaviours.

Prerequisites: Any 2 courses from Category A.

14235. B 35. Perception in daily life

This course interprets perception as a creative process by which we construct our experiences to make the best out of the world to enhance our life and quality of life. Perception is understood not simply as a way of sensing objects, but as an integral part of our conscious experience including our emotions and motivations, of our personality and our way of interacting with people. The constructive approach is adopted on the grounds that it 'makes sense' in daily life and is best evaluated and appreciated by students themselves through direct experience in projects and sharing their perceptions in tutorial discussions.

14236. B 36. The psychology of stress and health

This course adopts a biopsychosocial approach in exploring current issues and research on stress and health. Special emphasis is placed on the Hong Kong situation. Topics covered include: concepts of stress; the roles of cognition, personality and physiology in the stress response; social stressors; coping, stress management and health promotion; concepts of health and wellness; cultural implications. Students in this course shall undertake independent research projects. Assessment: 100% coursework.

Prerequisites: 14245 and 14206.

14238. B 37. Motivation and achievement

This course is an introduction to theories and research on achievement motivation. The course will cover a variety of topics including: motivation as a personal trait; situational causes of motivation; cognition and motivation; sociocultural influences on motivation and achievement; the role of meaning in motivation; sex differences in achievement and work investment; age and achievement motivation; enhancing motivation in learning.

Prerequisite: 14245, 14246 or 14327.

14247. B 38. Psychology in China: heritage and contemporary research

This course examines some traditional Chinese concepts and issues, as well as important contemporary research in China. Topics include Qigong, psychopathology and psychotherapy from a traditional Chinese viewpoint, sports and health psychology, organizational behaviour etc.

14339. B 39. Special topics in psychology

This course provides an opportunity to study in some depth an area of psychology of interest to students and a staff member alike. Individual topics may have special requirements for eligibility. Students taking this course may select one topic from the list of topics to be announced in the semester immediately prior to that in which they are taken. Assessment: 100% coursework.

14292. B 40. Computational models of behaviour

This course will explore the many aspects of psychological research that use computers as tools for understanding thought and behaviour. Topics covered will include traditional symbolic architectures in AI, expect systems, parallel distributed systems, intelligent agents, autonomous robots, situated systems, machine learning, and recent combinations of these approaches. The focus will be on the psychological contributions of these theories and methodologies. We will also look at how these advances help us build computers that are better suited for human use.

14293. B 41. Graphonomics and graphology

This course examines the psychological dimensions underlying the behaviour of handwriting and drawing, including perception, cognition and motor theory, as well as an introduction to scientific graphological analysis, in both theory and practice, linking personality and expressive graphic activities.

14251. B 42. Interpersonal relationships

This course applies social psychological principles to the understanding and improvements of interpersonal communication and relationships. It adopts the experiential approach which uses practical exercises, experience sharing, small group discussion, and strategic planning as the main teaching vehicles. In addition, an indigenous perspective will be taken as the main focus of investigation. Various specific types of relationships will be covered such as family, school, work, friendships, etc. Assessment: 60% coursework, 40% examination.

Prerequisite: 14246.

14252. B 43. Personal and social competencies I

Emphasizing the utility of theoretical knowledge, this course begins with a general theoretical orientation to psychological functioning and a thorough examination of the recent theoretical controversies raised by the publication of a few best-selling books in the psychology of competencies (The Bell Curve, Emotional Intelligence, and Successful Intelligence). Then, in each module, we survey the scientific research evidence pertinent to the cognitive and social ingredients of the major types of competencies: learning competence, emotional competence, social competence, practical intelligence, creativity, and moral competence.

One of the goals or objectives of Psychology is to sensitize learners to an understanding of ourselves as individuals and as members of a social group, society or culture. At the individual level, a well-adjusted individual is one who is aware of his/her strengths, limitations as well as potentialities for growth. This course also serves to promote self-awareness, and to develop such essential ingredients of psychological health as creativity, self-regulatory, emotional and interpersonal competencies, and the capacity to participate in community life. These objectives are achieved by having the student engaged in a set of growth-facilitating activities designed on the basis of scientific psychological knowledge. In each module, students are required to participate actively in extended tutorials, workshops, and/or community projects to explore the practical implications of theoretical knowledge.

Each student will take four modules in a course. The modules are: 1. A general orientation to psychological functioning; 2. Self-growth; 3. Creativity; 4. Learning competence; 5. Emotional intelligence and self-regulation; 6. Social competence; 7. Practical intelligence; 8. Leadership skills; 9. Conflict resolution; 10. Love, sex and marriage; 11. Social participation; and 12. Religion and psychology. Assessment: 100% coursework.

14253. B 44. Personal and social competencies II

Course description please refer to 14252. Students are required to take four modules other than those they have taken in 14252. Assessment: 100% coursework.

Social Work and Social Administration

The Department of Social Work and Social Administration offers a range of Social Administration courses which can be taken in conjunction with other units in the Faculty to make up the social sciences degree. These courses should be of interest to students who wish to learn about the provision of various social services in a society, and who may wish to pursue a career in social administration.

Social Administration courses are offered to all social sciences students who have taken 15111 in their first year. 15217 is compulsory for all who intend to take four or more courses in Social Administration in their second and third years.

The examination and coursework weightings shall be in the ratio of 70:30 unless otherwise specified.

Second- or Third-year Courses

15217. Social policy and planning

This course is designed to examine the concepts of social policy and social administration, and the various models available for the analysis of social policy. This should further the understanding of the development of social services to meet human needs in the context of economic and social change. Basic concepts of social planning, problem identification and programme implementation will be examined.

15325. Social services research (I) ¡X methodology

This course is designed to provide a basic grounding in research methodology and to illustrate the major concepts, methods and goals of social services research. Emphasis will be given to the understanding of researches in social policy and administration.

15326. Social services research (II) ¡X analysis and utilization

The objective of this course is to enable students to apply and interpret various methods in data analysis, as well as to enable them to critically analyse research re ports and make intelligent use of research findings in social policy and administration.

Prerequisites: 17101 or 17103 and 15325.

15321. Social security

This course will discuss the concepts of social security, its historical development, and functions in society. Students will be introduced to the planning, financing and administration of the social security systems as they are operated in Hong Kong and elsewhere.

15309. Social services agency administration

The aim of the course is to enable students to understand the nature and characteristics of human service organizations in terms of their environment, goals, technology and structure. The dynamics of performance appraisal, control, professional discretion, inducing changes, budgeting, teamwork and leadership are included.

15231. Social welfare in China

The course explores the philosophies, organization, techniques and development of social welfare provision in China. The work of the service organizations such as Civil Affairs Bureau, Street Offices, Unions, Federation of Women, and Communist Youth League will be studied. Issues of social security, youth policy, status of women, child care, the care of elderly people, the physically and mentally handicapped and professional training will be discussed.

15439. Social gerontology

Social gerontology is the study of the ways in which social and cultural factors enter into the aging process. It is an applied discipline addressing itself to the practical and immediate effects of aging.

The course is intended to provide a comprehensive description of the dimensions of aging. The goal is to provide a holistic view of aging and to point to the ways in which the personal, social and structural levels of the process interact to shape the daily lives of the elderly.

15222. Social economics

This course will introduce the use of economics in analysing social welfare problems and their solutions. Topics discussed will include the relationship between economic growth and social development, the role of the public sector in social welfare, the financing of social services, and the economic effects of social spending. Current topics such as the economics of aging will also be examined.

15234. Health administration

The theme of this course will be the importance of taking into account the cultural, economic, social and physical environments when examining matters to do with the provision of health care. The aim will be to introduce students to the issues of planning and priorities, financing and resource allocation, management principles, arguments concerning quality versus quantity, community health and public education as they relate to health administration.

15483. Social service programme evaluation

The objective of the course is to introduce the various models, methodologies and issues in the evaluation of social service programmes. Students will be involved in case studies and may be required to participate in an evaluative research project of an existing social service programme.

Prerequisite: 15325.

15239. Gender and social policy

Men and women's experience of the social world is significantly different but gender as a social construct is frequently overlooked both in academic discourse and in policy planning arenas. Gender effects are clear in health, education, employment, housing, social security provision, political activity and family (both in terms of private relations and family policy). This course will examine the different theories of gender discrimination, the consequent effects on social, economic and political life and attempt to answer the question 'what is to be done about it?'.

Prerequisite: 15217.

15241. Social action, empowerment and policy advocacy

Hong Kong's social and political environment is typified by groups of people taking collective action to pursue needs and achieve goals that are not part of the government's formal agenda. Such actions have helped to construct the pluralist nature of Hong Kong society. Typically, such social movements are seen within two broad theoretical paradigms. The first is the New Social Movement approach and the second is resource mobilization theory. Both seek to explain the emergence and significance of contemporary social movements in (post) industrial societies. Between them these two approaches explain linkages between micro and macro levels of society, between the civil society and the state, and politics and culture.

This course seeks to explore the relevance for Hong Kong society of these two paradigms, using examples from the traditional concerns of social policy education, housing, health, social security as well as the newer issues of the environment and gender. Within the tradition of social action, emphasis will be placed on empowerment, i.e. encouraging groups of people to take action on their own behalf, and effective means of influence to enable them to do this, e.g. lobbying the government and utilizing the media. It is envisaged that this course will be of particular interest to those seeking a career in public service and non-profit making organizations.

Third-year Courses

15333. Comparative social administration

The course is designed to introduce the comparative study of social policy in selected countries in the world, and to examine the provision of social development programmes and social services for analysis and evaluation in cross-country case studies.

15319. Community organization and social planning

This course will deal with the issue of citizen participation in urban planning and administration with special emphasis on the Hong Kong situation. It will focus on the analysis and evaluation of the methods and channels whereby people at the grassroots level can affect public policy. Topics include: the functions of pressure groups, neighbourhood organizations, advisory committees, mass media, labour unions and groups, voluntary agencies and organizations of welfare recipients; and the strategies of protest, campaign, education, mobilization, action research and opinion survey, advocacy and coalition formation. The course will contribute to the greater understanding of the 'countervailing forces' operating in the Hong Kong society.

15320. Social policy issues in Hong Kong

To analyse the kinds of social policy issues in Hong Kong and factors contributing to them. Various aspects of social service provision systems will also be examined.

15322. Family policy

This course will study the changing functions of the family system as the most fundamental caring unit in society. Policies affecting the family system, its relation with other social institutions and measures necessary to strengthen its roles will be discussed.

15340. Dissertation (double course)

Students who take four or more social administration courses may choose to do a dissertation in their third year. Students may choose their own topic but it must be agreed with the course co-ordinator by the end of October in the third year. Dissertations should be no more than 10,000 words long and must be completed by April 1 of the third year. Dissertations should contain some element of empirical work (e.g. interviews, a questionnaire etc.). There will be no examination for this course.

Sociology

16101 or 16102 is a prerequisite for all courses: additional prerequisites are specified in some cases. In exceptional cases these may be waived by the Head of the Department.

The courses offered for second- and third-year students are listed below. Not all the courses listed will necessarily be offered every year. Students intending to take eight or more courses in Sociology must take 16329 and 16204.

Second- or Third-year Courses

16211. Hong Kong society

An appraisal of the sociological research that has been done and the further research that needs to be done on Hong Kong society, covering such topics as: demographic structures and processes, kinship, marriage and family; the sociology of economic life; the polity; social stratification; systems of knowledge and belief; the mass media.

16329. Social research methods

The aims of this course are to introduce the basic principles and procedures which form the foundation of social research, to review the main types of research designs and methods of data collection used in social research, and to provide a set of criteria for analysing and evaluating the products of social research. The types of research covered will include participant observation, experimental design, survey methods and documentary analysis. Ethical and political issues in social research will also be discussed.

16208. Social problems

This course is designed to introduce students to a number of contemporary social problems, social issues, and social concerns. Special emphasis is given to the nature of social problems in Hong Kong.

16204. A history of social theory

This course introduces students to the development of sociological thought in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.

16241. Modern social theory

This course will be a critical exposition of many of the major trends in modern social theory, linking contemporary movements with older philosophical traditions in an attempt to trace continuities and ruptures in social thought. The course will be concerned with the contributions of behaviourists and social exchange theorists, the efforts of contemporary interactionists and French structuralists, and the post-structuralist enterprise.

Prerequisite: None, but 16204 recommended.

16229. Social stratification

This course deals with the phenomenon of social inequality. It will cover topics such as theoretical explanations of this phenomenon; the methodological problems involved; different types of social stratification including caste, class, gender and ethnicity; the consequences of stratification on life chances and life styles; and social mobility. A comparative approach will be adopted.

16226. Marriage and the family

Marriage and the family are viewed comparatively, using historical and cross-cultural data. Included are the impact of industrialization and urbanization on family life, different forms of family organization and the societal conditions under which they occur, theories of mate selection, recent changes in dating and premarital sexual involvement, parenthood, and marital adjustment. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

16311. Politics and society

This course offers a sociological discussion of political power, political institutions, political processes, and political behaviour.

16215. Social movements

This course examines the patterns and processes of different types of social and revolutionary movements. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

Prerequisite: None, but 16311 recommended.

16317. Social control

A discussion of the problems of social order and control; basic techniques of social control; control in interpersonal relationship and small groups; the role of ideology and mass media in social control; the uses of conflict in establishing order.

Prerequisite: None, but 16311 recommended.

16234. Crime and deviance

An introduction to the study of criminology and what is now termed 'deviance', with emphasis on the historical development of the discipline and the contributions of both psychology and sociology. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

16235. Social policy and criminal justice

This course will involve a critical analysis of the operation of law and order in modern society. Contemporary perspectives will be utilized in the assessment of the agencies responsible for the maintenance of law and order: the police, courts, prisons and the after care services.

Prerequisite: None, but 16234 strongly recommended.

16245. Sociology of law

This course examines the interplay between law and society. It has a strong cross-cultural input, combining sociological, anthropological and historical materials. Students will be introduced to sociological theories of law, and to the theory and practice of law in socialist and liberal societies as well as pre-industrial and developing societies. The course therefore covers the customary, common law and codified legal systems and will examine the connection between legal institutions and social values.

16213. Industrial societies

This course introduces students to concepts and theories used to analyse the social and political consequences of the emergence of modern industry. The applicability of theories of industrialization to the experience of selected Asian societies and the question of convergence between capitalist and socialist societies are among the issues discussed.

16242. Economic sociology

This course deals with the relations between the economic and non-economic aspects of social life. Economic attitudes such as achievement motivations and work ethics, economic processes such as innovation and the establishment of business trust, economic roles such as entrepreneurs and managers, and economic organizations such as family firms and corporations will be examined in their socio -cultural contexts.

16327. Organizations and society

This course introduces students to basic concepts and theories used in the analysis of organizations in modern societies. Emphasis is placed on studies of such organizations as prisons, factories, universities and governmental agencies.

16233. Labour and labour movements

The focus of this course is on the historical and comparative analysis of the development of the working class in industrial and industrializing societies. Topics covered include working class formation and stratification, the character and sources of variation in worker consciousness, and the variety of organizational forms and strategies devised by workers to cope with problems stemming from the industrialization process. Attention is also given to the impact of contemporary economic, technological and social changes upon the structure, consciousness and behaviour of the working class in both advanced and developing economies.

16231. Culture and society

This course will introduce some of the central concerns of cultural and social anthropology (culture and human nature; the components of culture; the diversity of human cultures and societies; culture and social behaviour; social change) through a study of the theoretical concerns and empirical fieldwork of selected social and cultural anthropologists of the twentieth century.

16301. Selected topics in social and cultural anthropology

This course will examine the development of theory and empirical research in one or more selected topics in social and cultural anthropology. The topics to be covered will vary from year to year and will be announced before the beginning of the academic year. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

Prerequisite: None, but 16231 recommended.

16237. Social change in Southeast Asia

An introduction to the societies of Southeast Asia, and to the vast social changes occurring in the region today. The course begins with an elaboration of traditional cultures, followed by an examination of specific social realities, including changing caste/class roles; economic development and underdevelopment; the role of religious ideology as a political force; the situation of women. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

16318. Economic development and social change

This course will be concerned with the dynamics and consequences of economic transformation in the developing world, with a particular focus on industrialization in East Asia. We will begin with a brief survey of some of the general theoretical frameworks that have been used to explain development in East Asia, as elsewhere, before moving on to examine particular societies and thematic issues in the light of these general frameworks. The societies to which most attention will be paid will be Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia. The thematic issues to be addressed will include the transformative significance of historical conjunctures, free markets, foreign investment, economic cultures and state policy.

16331. Gender and society

This course will focus on the social construction of gender and the patterns of inequality that result from this process. Themes to be examined are: biology and destiny; social definitions of masculinity and feminity; sex role socialization; consequences of gender differentiation; theoretical perspectives. In addition, the contribution that social theory has to make to the question of the origins of sex inequalities will also be examined.

16315. Urban sociology

This course discusses, comparatively and with special reference to developing countries, the patterns, trends and problems of the process of urbanization and its relationship to the organization of urban spatial and social structure.

16316. The urban experience

An examination of the distinctive experiences, life-styles and problems of people who live in cities.

16225. Sociology of religion

This course will consider the central role of religion in the transition from traditional to industrial society and the problematic status of religion in the modern world. It will examine the contributions of classical social theorists, Marx, Weber and Durkheim, and also the more recent work on such issues as secularization, new religious movements, and alternatives to religion. It will ask: is religion in decline in the modern world?

16228. Sociology of education

Formal educational institutions in society will be examined, using the major concepts and theories of sociology. Emphasis is placed on the relationship between education and other important social institutions such as the family, the polity, and the economy. The questions of equality of educational opportunity and the potential role of education in fostering social change will also be analysed.

16246. Traditional Chinese society

This course deals with the sociological significance and methodology of the study of the Chinese society. The theme is social integration how social order was attained in the late imperial period, and how that order disintegrated after the Western impact. Important institutions such as family and kinship, social stratification and mobility, rural and urban organizations, central and local government, religion and other belief systems will be discussed.

16247. Contemporary Chinese society

This course attempts to analyse the social system in the People's Republic of China. Sociological explanations of the Chinese Communist Revolution, the process of social reintegration through ideology and organization, the socialist path to modernization, and continuities and discontinuities with social patterns in the past will be discussed.

Prerequisite: None, but 16246 recommended.

16248. Japanese society

This course focuses on some salient features of Japanese culture and society. The topics covered in the course are: the nature of Japanese society, culture and national character, family and kinship, social stratification, rural and urban communities, and social problems. Emphasis is also given to comparing Japan with other countries, especially China.

16326. Research project

Students taking eight or more courses in Sociology may undertake a small research project under supervision by a lecturer. They must make a proposal first and get the approval of a supervisor before enrolment. They must submit a research report before the end of April in their final year of study. Assessment: 100% research report.

16239. Race and ethnic relations

This course investigates one of the great modern social problems: racial conflict. The course traces the history of the idea of race and analyses the reasons for its persistence in contemporary society. It assesses the crucial impact of race on such societies as South Africa, the UK and USA and asks whether Asian societies have comparable, if less publicised, problems.

16332. Sociology of contemporary culture

This course aims to survey a number of theoretical and methodological approaches to the study of contemporary cultural life. Topics covered will include the production and consumption of mass communication products (TV, films, advertisements, fiction, pop music), spectator sports, leisure patterns and subcultural lifestyles.

16333. Population and society

The quantity and quality of population have profound effects on a society. The number of people who are born, who die and who migrate within or out of a society are results of decisions and actions taken by individuals or families which are in turn affected by local and international events and policies. Changes in the number and in the characteristics of a population also have far-reaching social, economic and political consequences. On the macro-level, this course will examine the inter-relationship between social, economic and political processes, and the demographic processes of fertility, mortality and migration. On the micro-level, it will investigate the mutual effects between actions of individuals and families, and the larger social and demographic processes.

16244. Sociology of punishment

This course deals with sociological and criminological theories of punishment. It will examine the historical and social context of punishment and look at the changing form of punishment in society. Students will be introduced to current debates on penal policy and corrections within the criminal justice system.

Prerequisite: None, but 16234 recommended.

16243. Legal process

This is a socio-legal course which aims to locate the practice of lawyering in its social context. Particular emphasis is placed upon studying the rise of the legal profession, lawyer/client relationships, the nature of the judiciary and the structure of the court system. The course examines alternative ways of providing legal services, alternative dispute processing mechanisms and informal justice. To this end it uses historical, sociological and anthropological studies of legal systems.

16249. Medical sociology

This course will cover the main issues in the sociology of health and illness and health services provision. Topics covered may include: the social definitions and indicators of health and illness; social causes of disease and 'social hygiene'; development and current patterns of health care and their association with other socio-economic factors; relations between doctors, paramedics and patients; Western 'orthodox' and 'alternative', and 'Chinese traditional' forms of medical practice; the hospital as an institution and its links with other institutional forms in society; and sociological approaches to mental illness and drug abuse.

16251. Science, technology and society

This course looks at science and technology in their wider social context. It aims to provide students with an understanding of how science and technology have been shaped by social forces, and how they have influenced social developments in developed and developing countries. To this end, it will study the rise of science and technology in China, Europe and the United States, and look at the role of the various scientific and technological professions in these countries. It will also introduce students to key issues in the history and sociology of science, and the sociology of knowledge more generally. It will examine sociological issues such as images of science and their social uses, and examine the use of science as a resource in public policy. In addition to these wider issues, the course will look at sociological studies of scientific work in the laboratory, scientific culture, and the concept of 'fraudulent' or 'bogus' knowledge.

16252. Japanese economic institutions

This course will focus on Japanese economic organizations and the ways they are influenced by Japanese culture and political and social structures. The topics covered include: development of the large corporation, management structures and styles, education and the employment system, the organization of work on the shop-floor, trade unions and industrial conflict, characteristics of small firms, inter -enterprise cooperation and competition, the role of industry associations, business and the state, Japanese enterprises abroad.

Prerequisite: None, but 16248 recommended.

16253. Social anthropology of Hong Kong and Guangdong

This course examines the transformation of culture in Hong Kong and compares it with developments in neighbouring Guangdong. It looks at changes in family organization, ritual and popular culture and problems of urban anthropology in Hong Kong.

16254. Quantitative sociological analysis

This course introduces students to basic concepts and techniques in formulating and testing sociological hypotheses. Real data sets, with special reference to Hong Kong, will be analysed.

16255. Hong Kong popular culture

This course examines the major research landmarks in the study of popular culture in modern societies. The theoretical and methodological issues raised will serve as a guide for a series of workshops and field projects which investigate the history, nature and social significance of popular culture in Hong Kong. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

Prerequisite: None, but 16332 recommended.

16256. Programme planning and evaluation

This is a course in applied sociology which examines both the general principles involved in developing social programmes programmes in corrections, health, community action, mental health, job training, technical assistance, and so on and the various ways of measuring the effectiveness of such programmes.

Prerequisite: None, but 16329 recommended.

16257. Special topics in sociology

This course, offered from time to time, provides an opportunity to study in depth an area of sociology of interest to staff and students. Students should consult the Department for information on the content and prerequisites, if any, of the unit on offer.

16258. Sociology of sexuality

This course examines how different cultures and sub-cultures construct their own categories of sexual desire, sexual identity, eroticism and sexualities. It covers theories of sexuality, issues in the cultural construction of sexuality, practices of sexual diversity and media representations of sex.

16259. Anthropology of environment and space

This course is the study of the urban environment and the use and abuse of urban space. It deals with the social construction, the manipulation and negotiation of cities and urban space. The following areas will be examined: culture and housing; public and private space; urban environment and space in relation to ethnicity, class, gender and religion; environment and green politics; the pragmatic uses of space in relation to conservation, tourism and the heritage industry. The empirical focus is on Asian cities and on Hong Kong society.

16260. The four little dragons: the political economy of development

South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, and Hong Kong have come to be known as the 'four little dragons' or the 'East Asian newly industrialized countries (NICs)'. They have made impressive strides in their economic performance and international agencies have used them as the model for the other developing countries. The course will take a closer look at these economic miracles.

The general orientation of the course is historical-structural. It will examine the historical context within which the NICs emerged and analyse the ways in which they challenged the received theories of development. It will look at the roles of the state, capital, and labour during the various stages of development, while keeping the changing global context in focus. It will pay keen attention to the variations within the so-called East Asian model and compared the four cases wherever appropriate. The course will also examine the disagreeable sides of their development. In particular, we shall look at the suppression of social, economic, and political rights, and the mounting resistance to these forms of domination. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

16261. Gender and crime

Women who engage in illegal activities typically acquire a 'double deviant status'; they are perceived to be violating legal codes as well as gender proscriptions. Women offenders are not simply the shoplifter or the cocaine addict, but the 'fallen woman', the 'wicked temptress', and the 'immoral mother'. Such views about women offenders have been the basis for their differential treatment under the law and in punishment systems. The purpose of this course is to critically assess these assumptions and the gendered ways of social control policies.

The course is organized into three main sections. The first part of the course will examine the 'facts' on female offenders and theoretical explanations for female delinquency and crime. The next section focuses on women as crime victims, particularly in sexual assaults and domestic violence. The last section of the course traces and compares the development of social control policies (as expressed in the law, the criminal justice system, and corrections) aimed specifically at women offenders in several countries. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

16262. Mass communication and society

This course provides an analysis of the nature, development and impact of communication media in society. It first examines a number of approaches to understanding the social, technological and political determinants of modern communication media. The fruitfulness such approaches will then be assessed with reference to a range of substantive issues concerning the role of mass media in society. Topics covered will include: history of mass communication, the ownership and control of modern media, ideals and practices of journalism, media (e.g. advertising, television, films) and cultural formation, the political impact of the media, the social impact of new communication technologies, the regulation of and access to broadcasting, and the globalization of communication media.

16263. Individual and society

How are we, as sociologists, to understand the connections between the individual and society? How do individuals define their situation and social environments? How do these definitions become the basis for human action in everyday life? What is the role of social interaction in understanding this relationship between individuals and society? The purpose of this course is to examine these questions from a particular sociological lenses, that of symbolic interaction. This perspective cuts across a variety of specialty areas in sociology, ranging from social organizations to deviance and social control, education, work, and health. Our examination of the different 'schools' of symbolic interaction will include a critical discussion of the theorizing and research studies of those working in the Chicago, Iowa and California traditions. The last third of the course will concentrate on current attempts to integrate symbolic interaction and cultural studies. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

Statistics

Second- and third-year courses in Statistics build upon one of the first-year courses. There are three study themes. The 'social sciences statistics' theme is for students who have taken 17101. Students who have taken 17103 or 17106 can choose between two themes: 'business statistics' and 'mathematical statistics'. Full details of the themes are available from the Department of Statistics. Students in the Statistics Stream must take 17202 and 17328 in their second year.

Second- or Third-year Courses

17202. Statistical inference

This course builds on 17106, developing further the language of probability, random variables and statistical modelling. Contents include: review of standard distributions, their properties and relevance. Moment generating functions. Sampling distributions. Principles of estimation, unbiasedness, efficiency, consistency. Maximum likelihood estimation, asymptotic properties, sufficiency, algorithms. Hypothesis testing, likelihood ratio principle. Simple linear regression. The basic chi-squared test, categorical data. In taking this course students become eligible for all courses in both the 'mathematical and business statistics' themes.

Examination: One three-hour written paper.

Prerequisite: 17106.

Eligibility: Not available if candidates have taken 17232.

17203. Linear statistical analysis

The analysis of variability is mainly concerned with locating the sources of the variability. Many statistical techniques investigate these sources through the use of 'linear' models. This course presents the theory and practice of these models. Contents include: multivariate distributions, in particular the multivariate normal and its quadratic forms. Correlation analysis. Analysis of variance. Multiple regression. The unifying theory of linear models. Binary regression including logistic. Extensive use of IML, the matrix language within SAS, will illustrate the matrix operations.

Prerequisite: 17202.

Eligibility: Not available if candidates have taken 17262.

17325. Practical survey techniques

We often try to infer the characteristics of a population by taking a sample from that population. This approach is usually forced upon us for economic, ethical or technological reasons. Against a background of practical situations, this course considers the basic principles, practice and design of sampling techniques to produce objective answers, free from bias. Emphasis will be on current and local problems.

Co-requisite: 17241.

17206. Demographic science

Demography is concerned with the analysis of population structure, including the measurement of fertility, mortality, migration, manpower and education needs. Basic techniques such as life tables and population growth models will be illustrated in particular relation to the population and needs of Hong Kong. Simple population models for species other than humans will also be considered as a means of showing the relationship between demography and ecology.

Prerequisite: 17101 or 17241 .

17224. Computer-aided statistical analysis

This computer-oriented course, which follows on from the basic foundations established in 17232, presents a wide range of statistical analyses using real data sets. The emphasis is on practical application. We study the general strategy of data analysis, how to process the data, how to formulate a sensible model and how to choose an appropriate method of analysis. This course makes extensive use of interactive and user-friendly statistical software JMP and SAS. Students will also learn to use at least one of these packages. Contents include: data analysis strategy, data description, analysis of variance, multiple regression, logistic regression, principal components analysis, discriminant analysis and cluster analysis.

Prerequisite: 17232.

17243. The statistics of investment risk I

Most investments involve some risk. The decision to invest or not is usually made against a background of uncertainty. Whilst prediction of the future is difficult, there are statistical modelling techniques which provide a rational framework for investment decisions, particularly those relating to stock markets and the markets for interest rates, commodities and currencies. Building upon research, both in Hong Kong and abroad, this course presents the prevailing statistical theories for prices and price -change in these vital markets. Particular issues include the distribution of price changes, the concept of an efficient market, the relationship between price movements and trading volume, futures trading, the Black-Scholes formula for option pricing. The general issue of statistics in gambling situations is discussed, as theories of gambling have been an important contribution to the statistics of investment risk.

Prerequisite: 17202 or 17232 .

17222. Business logistics

Originally, the word 'logistics' described the strategic aspects involved in moving and supplying armies and navies. Usage grew to include games of strategy, such as chess. Modern business corporations are increasingly using logistics as a management tool, for example, in capital budgeting problems, production planning, scheduling, transportation or in deciding a location for a new factory. This course addresses the business applications of logistics using mathematics, statistics and computer packages. Contents include: optimization techniques applied to problems in the allocation of resources, financial planning and transportation; linear programming, dynamic programming, integer programming; network analysis, critical path methods; queuing theory; probability modelling tools in production and inventory control.

Examination: One three-hour written paper.

Prerequisite: 17103 or 17106 .

17239. Applied non-parametric methods

Many statistical tests can be performed by simple calculations with ranks. These tests are especially important when distributional assumptions inherent in statistical models are unacceptable. Rank tests are a part of the field known as 'non-parametric statistics'. The course aims to explore this field. Contents include: theory of ranks, order statistics. Extreme value distributions. Hypothesis tests such as Mann -Whitney, Wilcoxon, Kolmogorov-Smirnov, von Mises, Kruskal-Wallis, Friedman, Spearman, Kendall and runs tests. Modern themes in non-parametric statistics.

Prerequisite: 17202 or 17232 .

17327. Design and analysis of experiments

This course is especially tailored for experimentalists and is taught with minimal mathematical prerequisites. Often much time and effort are wasted by investigators simply because they have not planned the design of their investigation in a way that stands up to criticisms of bias and invalidity. In this course basic principles of experimental design (such as replication, randomization, blocking, balancing, factorial completeness, and confounding) are explained in relation to specific problems.

Prerequisite: 17241 or 17232 .

17228. Statistics in clinical medicine and bio-medical research

In clinical medicine doctors observe features (such as blood pressure, hormone levels, presence/absence of a symptom, degree of infection, etc.) which are subject to natural variation between individual patients and between groups of patients with different disease types. This variability motivates the application of statistical methodology to the clinical observational and decision-making process. Part of the course deals with these applications.

The other part deals with statistical problems which come from biological and medical research, for example the controlled clinical drug trial, the assessment of data on epidemics (such as AIDS, hepatitis) and the analysis of data from cell and molecular biology. No knowledge in biology or medicine is assumed; the course provides all of the necessary bio-medical background when the statistical problems are introduced.

Prerequisite: 17202 or 17232 .

17238. Theory of interest

This course introduces the mathematics of finance which plays an important role in the development of basic actuarial techniques. Practical applications of the actuarial functions and notation are considered also. Key topics include: measurement of interest, including accumulated and present value factors; annuities certain; yield rates; amortization schedules and sinking funds; bonds and related securities; practical applications such as real estate mortgage, short sales and modern financial instruments; discounted cash flow; capital gains tax; stochastic approaches to interest; consumer credit; capital redemption policies. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

Examination: One three-hour written paper.

Prerequisite: 17103 or 17106 .

17326. Quality control and management

The successful control of quality in production is a matter of primary importance to a company's probability and good-will. This course provides an overview of the cost/quality compromise which involves both the producer and the consumer. It presents a variety of statistical solutions including control charts, acceptance sampling plans, sequential sampling procedures, continuous sampling plans, analysis of measurement errors, reliability, life-testing, and experimental designs. Taguchi's concepts and methods of quality engineering will be discussed. Contemporary quality management systems such as total quality control, quality control circle, zero defects, and ISO-9000 will be introduced. The student is brought to the frontier of today's quality control and management.

Prerequisite: 17202 or 17232 .

17328. Probability modelling

In this course we present the fundamental principles of probability theory through examples. The emphasis is on the modelling of systems which evolve with time in a random way, the so called 'random' or 'stochastic' process. Topics include: the Poisson process, which models events such as accidents which occur randomly in time; branching processes, which model population growth; random walks, which model gambling and financial transactions; Markov chains; birth and death processes; diffusion processes, which are useful in modern finance theory; cognitive models of learning; models for no-claim discount systems in general insurance; collective risk models. Some use of standard computer packages, such as the matrix language IML within SAS, illustrate the topics on Markov chains.

Examination: One three-hour written paper.

Prerequisite: 17103 or 17106 . Students in the Statistics Stream must take this course in their second year.

17262. Linear models and forecasting

This course presents the theory and practice of linear models and investigates various forecasting procedures through time series analysis. Contents include: analysis of variance including one factor, two factor-unreplicated, and two factor-replicated experiments; regression and multiple linear regression; time series models including autoregressive, moving average, autoregressive-moving average and integrated models.

Examination: One three-hour written paper.

Prerequisite: 17202 or 17232 .

Eligibility: Not available if candidates have taken 17203 or 17327.

17233. The analysis of sample surveys

We often try to infer the characteristics of a population by taking a sample from that population. This approach is usually forced upon us for economic, ethical or technological reasons. This course considers the basic theory for the design and analysis of surveys.

Prerequisite: 17103 or 17106 .

17234. Business forecasting

In daily business operations, forecasts are routinely required on different aspects of the economy, the market and individual companies. Numerous statistical techniques have been developed in the past decades to provide forecasts for the business decision maker. This course considers a wide range of such techniques that have proven useful to practitioners. The contents of the course include: an introduction to index numbers; trend line fitting by regression, moving averages, growth curves and discounted least squares; the handling of seasonal cycles and seasonal adjustment procedures; the search for leading indicators; the use of survey data; the evaluation and combination of forecasts; technological forecast techniques such as the Delphi method. Course evaluation will include a project on forecasting real data. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

Prerequisite: 17101 or 17241 .

17232. Statistical concepts and methods

This course is a natural sequel to 17103 taught at the same intermediate mathematical level. The course has two aims. Firstly, we aim to equip the student with the main concepts of statistical estimation and hypothesis testing, so that many other statistical ideas become accessible to the student. Secondly, we aim to provide exposure to statistics in a computer environment through the use of a statistical package such as JMP.

Prerequisite: 17103 or 17106 .

Eligibility: Not available if candidates have taken 17202 or 17241.

17241. Computer-aided data analysis I

In any study of the social sciences the investigator is faced with uncertainty and variability. Examples include the uncertain effects of a new fiscal measure and the variability in educational attainments of individuals. Measuring uncertainty, describing patterns of variability, and describing the inter -relationship between several variables are therefore essential aspects of social science investigations. These aspects require a good understanding of statistics. Against a background of specific social science problems, this computer-oriented but non-mathematical course develops the important concepts and methods of statistics. In particular, students will learn data exploration, formulation of testable hypotheses, the evaluation of evidence and forecasting on the basis of past experience. Simple statistical software, JMP, will be used extensively. No prior knowledge of computers is assumed. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

Prerequisite: 17101 or 17103 .

Eligibility: Students with Adanced Level Pure Mathematics are not permitted into this course. The course is not available if 17232 has already been taken.

17237. Computer-oriented statistical modelling

This is a computer-oriented course of statistical analysis designed for the statistical major who likes to see theory illustrated by practical computation. Numerous real data sets will be presented for modelling and analysis using statistical packages. The underlying theory of each analysis will be addressed. The course also aims to develop skills of model selection and testing, so that questions of interest can be properly formulated and answered. An important element deals with model review and improvement, when one's first attempt does not adequately fit the data. Modern computer packages such as SAS make this 'interactive data analysis' possible. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

Examination: One three-hour written paper.

Prerequisite: 17203.

17242. Computer-aided data analysis II

This computer-oriented course provides a natural sequel to 17241. The course deals with the situation where many variables of interest are measured on each individual. We deal with techniques which allow one to investigate relationships between these variables. Students will deal with real data sets and, using the software JMP, learn how to derive meaningful interpretations. Contents include: multiple regression, logistic regression, principal components analysis, discriminant analysis and cluster analysis. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

Prerequisite: 17241.

17236. Planning of experiments

Often much time and effort are wasted by investigators simply because they have not planned the design of their investigation in a way that stands up to criticisms of bias and invalidity. Failure to choose efficient design layouts can also lead to gross wastage of effort. In this course the basic theory of experimental design is introduced so that difficulties of this type can be minimized and so that experimental resources can be used efficiently. The notions of crossed and nested factorial structure, balanced incomplete factorial experiments and fixed/random effects will be discussed.

Co-requisite: 17203.

The following five Industrial Engineering courses are available for selection by Statistics Stream students only:

63111.  Manufacturing engineering practice

63224.  Work design and ergonomics (double course)

63230.  Design for manufacture

63345.  Production planning and control (double course)

63347.  Manufacturing systems analysis and design (double course)

Third-year Courses

17318. Time-series analysis

A time series consists of a set of observations on a random variable taken over time. Time series arise naturally in climatology, economics, environmental studies and many other disciplines. The observations in a time series are usually correlated; the course establishes a framework to discuss this. The course distinguishes different types of time series, investigates various linear or non-linear representations for the processes and studies the relative merits of different forecasting procedures. Students will analyse real time-series data on the computer. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

Prerequisite: 17203.

17227. Further topics in probability modelling

This course builds on the basic techniques of probability theory established in 17328, expanding the domain of application to diverse areas and developing new techniques for problem solving.

Prerequisites: 17328 and 24303.

17330. Selected topics in statistics

This course covers a range of topics necessary for work as a professional statistician. Statistical problems can be of many types. Whilst the statistician will face many non-standard situations, he/she is aided by well-developed theories and methods which bring many problems into a standard framework. This course presents such theory and method. The emphasis may vary slightly from year to year.

Prerequisite: 17203.

17324. Multivariate statistical analysis

In many designed experiments or observational studies the researchers are dealing with multivariate data, where each observation is a set of measurements taken on the same individual. These measurements are often correlated. The correlation prevents the use of univariate statistics to draw inferences. This course develops the statistical methods for analysing multivariate data through examples in various fields of application. Contents include: the standard techniques such as discriminant analysis and classification, principal components analysis, cluster analysis, factor analysis and multivariate analysis of variance/covariance. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

Examination: One three-hour written paper.

Prerequisite: 17203.

17336. Project in statistics

Each year a few projects suitable for the Statistics major students will be offered. These projects, under the supervision of individual staff members involve the application of statistics and/or probability in interesting situations. They provide students with practical experience in approaching a real problem, in report writing and in oral presentation. Assessment: 75% written report, 25% oral presentation.

Quota: 10 students.

Prerequisite: 17203.

17244. The statistics of investment risk II

A course in the pricing and trading of financial derivatives, this course seeks to provide students with a strong theoretical background in the pricing of options and futures. Topics covered include option pricing models (Black-Scholes, Cox-Ross-Rubinstein, and Monte Carlo), arbitrage pricing relationships, stochastic volatility, hedging, portfolio insurance, and dynamic trading strategies. In addition, various numerical approaches to option pricing are stressed.

Prerequisite: 17243.

17337. Financial time series analysis

This course applies advanced time-series models to the analysis and forecasting of financial time-series data. Topics covered include vector ARIMA modelling, Bayesian vector autoregression, state space models, Kalman filters, unit-root analysis, cointegration and error-correction models, (G)ARCH modelling, regime switching models, tests for nonlinearity, nonlinear and nonparametric regression, neural network methods, stochastic volatility models. The goal is for students to gain expertise in the forecasting and empirical testing of financial models applied to regular and high-frequency financial time series.

Prerequisite: 17318.

Additional Options for a Major within the General Stream

I. Public and Social Administration

1. Objective

The programme is jointly sponsored by the Department of Politics and Public Administration and the Department of Social Work and Social Administration and provides for a structured and coherent course of study in the related fields of public and social administration. In the longer term, it seeks to provide the community with a pool of graduates with specialized knowledge in public administration and social administration to cope with the growing challenges of public sector work and developments in social welfare services.

2. Pre-enrolment Requirement

Candidates must have taken in their first year of study the following courses:

13101.  Introduction to political science or

13102.  Introduction to public administration

15111.  Introduction to social administration

17101.  Elementary statistical methods or

17103.  Introductory statistics

Acceptance into the programme is conditional upon satisfactory completion of these courses in particular and subject to places available.

3. Programme Structure

The programme comprises eight mandatory courses as follows:

Candidates are free to choose their other eight courses in any other departments (core or non-core). In the interest of developing a coherent framework for understanding the subjects taught in this programme however students are strongly advised to select the other eight courses from among the following offered by the Department of Politics and Public Administration and the Department of Social Work and Social Administration:

Politics and Public Administration

13241.  Contemporary political ideologies

13249.  Urbanization and urban poverty

13252.  Hong Kong politics

13259.  China and Hong Kong: the politics of transition

13230.  A special topic in political theory

13265.  Introduction to Chinese politics

13266.  Politics of economic reform in China

Social Work and Social Administration

15321.  Social security

15309.  Social services agency administration

15231.  Social welfare in China

15439.  Social gerontology

15222.  Social economics

15333.  Comparative social administration

15319.  Community organization and social planning

15322.  Family policy

15483.  Social service programme evaluation

15234.  Health administration

15241.  Social action, empowerment and policy advocacy

15239.  Gender and social policy

15340.  Dissertation (double course)

[Note: Not all optional courses listed above will be offered, depending on teacher availablity.]

II. Criminal Justice

1. Objective

Crime and its control are among some of the oldest problems facing society. In comparison, criminal justice programmes are a relatively recent development, though they are now a commonly accepted part of the university curriculum elsewhere. Criminal justice studies combines a concern for current problems and practices associated with crime control with an understanding of law and social sciences as they are related to criminal justice issues. Candidates will study such topics as criminology, the sociology of law, corrections, social policy, and social administration. The programme seeks to promote an understanding of not only 'how' the criminal justice system operates, but 'why' it should or should not continue to operate in the way it does, and is aimed for students who wish to assume a professional position in the criminal justice system and any one else having a general interest in crime and its control.

2. Pre-enrolment Requirement

Candidates must have taken in the first year of study the following courses:

15111.  Introduction to social administration

16101.  Introduction to sociology or

16102.  Introduction to anthropology

Acceptance into the programme is conditional upon satisfactory completion of these courses in particular and subject to places available. Candidates who intend to select optional courses in Law in the second and third years are encouraged to attend lectures in the first-year course 18108. The legal system in the Faculty of Law.

3. Programme Structure

During the second and third years candidates are required to take a minimum of six courses in sociology and two additional complementary courses selected from a list of courses offered by other departments, as follows:

(a) Mandatory Courses

16234.  Crime and deviance

16235.  Social policy and criminal justice

(b) Other Required Sociology Courses

A minimum of four courses to be chosen from the following list:

16329.  Social research methods

16204.  A history of social theory

16208.  Social problems

16317.  Social control

16245.  Sociology of law

16244.  Sociology of punishment

16243.  Legal process

16326.  Research project

16261.  Gender and crime

Candidates who choose Research project (16326) will be required to complete a small research project dealing with some aspects of criminal justice.

(c) Complementary Courses

A minimum of two other courses in criminal justice to be chosen from the following:

Economics and Finance

11405.  The economics of law

Social Work and Social Administration

15334.  Law for social workers

15322.  Family policy

15226.  Social work in residential care

15329.  Selected topics in social work practice

15338.  Social work practice with youth at risk and juvenile offenders

15339.  Youth crime and juvenile justice issues

Law

18207.  Criminal law

18322.  Comparative law

18328.  Legal history

18342.  Current legal controversies

18343.  The Hong Kong Basic Law

18348.  Introduction to legal theory

18349.  Law, justice and ideology

Candidates are free to choose the remaining courses in any other departments (core or non-core).

III. Politics and Philosophy

1. Objective

The programme, jointly coordinated by the Department of Politics and Public Administration and the Department of Philosophy, provides for a structured course of study of politics and philosophy with a special emphasis on political philosophy.

This joint study of politics and philosophy is not only academically fruitful and interesting, but has a special relevance at a time of rapid political change in Hong Kong.

Philosophy is not purely abstract any more than political science is purely descriptive. Philosophers have long raised fundamental questions about justice, democracy, the relation between law and morality, and so on. And political science does not ignore normative issues. Though offering empirical descriptions and explanations is an important task for political science, Lenin's question always lies in the background: what is to be done? Ultimately, political science is a practical subject, aimed at solving the problems of living together. Thus it is to be expected that normative issues will give direction to empirical research. Here is one place where philosophy has value for political science, by equipping students of politics with conceptual resources and a grasp of theories of ethics.

2. Pre-enrolment Requirement

Candidates must have taken in their first year of study the following courses:

13101.  Introduction to political science or

13102.  Introduction to public administration

07108.  Introduction to philosophy: science and inquiry or

07102.  Introduction to philosophy: the human mind or

07103.  Introduction to philosophy: ethics and politics or

07104.  Introduction to philosophy: Chinese and Western thought

Acceptance into the programme is conditional upon satisfactory completion of these courses. The number of places on this programme will be limited to thirty.

3. Programme Structure

(a) Compulsory Courses

The programme comprises eight mandatory courses as follows:

(i)  07327.  Seminar in political philosophy

(Taught at least every other year by staff of both Departments.)

(ii) Politics and Public Administration: 3 or 4 courses from

13328.  Ethics and public affairs

13240.  Political theory

13241.  Contemporary political ideologies

13242.  Marxism and political theory or

13230.  A special topic in political theory

(iii) Philosophy: 3 or 4 courses

(b) Elective Courses

Candidates may choose the remaining eight courses in any department, subject to Faculty regulations. In the interest of providing a coherent programme, however, candidates are strongly advised to select at least four electives from the following courses offered by the Departments of Politics and Public Administration and Philosophy.

Politics and Public Administration

13268.  Development and underdevelopment

13245.  International politics

13252.  Hong Kong politics

13259.  China and Hong Kong: the politics of transition

13265.  Introduction to Chinese politics

Philosophy

07295.  Chinese philosophy: ethics

07253.  Philosophy of social science

07244.  Moral problems

07255.  Utilitarianism

07287.  Philosophy of law

IV. European Studies

1. Objective

The programme, jointly co-ordinated by the Department of Politics and Public Administration, the Department of History and the Language Centre, is to provide for a structured course of study in the field of European Studies with an emphasis on language.

The academic rationale for European Studies lies in the desirability of bringing together, in a focused way, courses which would explore the diversity of European thought, politics, history, culture and economics. This is particularly apposite at a time of rapid political and economic change on the continent. The practical rationale is that Hong Kong should produce graduates who are knowledgeable about Europe for the simple pragmatic reason that it is to its advantage to do so.

2. Pre-enrolment Requirement

Candidates should have taken in their first year of study the following courses:

86166.  French I or

86167.  German I

13101.  Introduction to political science

06127.  Introduction to European history

Candidates who declare their intention to take the European Studies major will be required to attend a summer transitional language programme in French or German in order to bring their language proficiency to the required standard acceptable for admission to the second-year French or German courses.

Acceptance into the programme is conditional upon satisfactory completion of these courses and subject to availability of places which will be limited to thirty.

3. Programme Structure

(a) Compulsory Courses

The programme comprises eight mandatory courses or the equivalent of twelve courses as follows:

Second year

06244.  Nineteenth-century Europe, 1789?918 (double course)

13240.  Political theory

13262.  European politics

86225.  French II.1 (double course) or

86223.  German II.1 (double course)

Third year

06343.  Europe since the First World War (double course)

13272.  The political economy of the European Union

13310.  The government and politics of the United Kingdom

86361.  French III.1 (double course) or

86362.  German III.1 (double course)

(b) Optional Courses

Candidates are free to choose the remaining courses from any other core or non-core departments.

(c) Summer Courses

For the entire summer between the second and third year of study, candidates shall attend language and other courses in Europe to be arranged by the departments and centre.

Courses in Non-core Departments

American Studies Programmes

Students interested in the study of American culture and civilization may consult teachers of the programme or members of the Board of Studies in American Studies to find out other American studies -related courses offered by other departments in the Faculties of Social Sciences and Arts.

Second- and Third-year Courses

74100. Foundations of American studies (double course)

Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

74202. A special topic in American studies

Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

74200. A special subject in American studies (double course)

Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

74201. Dissertation (double course)

Dissertation should be completed and presented for examination by April 30 of the academic year in which the course is taken.

Third-year Courses

74300. A senior seminar in American studies (double course)

Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

Business

12103 or 12104 is a prerequisite for all courses and additional prerequisites are specified in some cases. See also paragraph 2 under Second and Third Years on pp. 614.

Second- or Third-year Courses

12235. II/III. Introduction to operations management

A general introduction to the basic concepts and principles of management of manufacturing and service operations. Emphasis will be on both the quantitative and qualitative aspects of operations management and the intention is to give students moderate exposure to the major topics in operations management.

12212. II/III. Organizational behaviour and introduction to human resource management

A course on the concepts used for the understanding of human behaviour in organizations and an introduction to the application of these concepts in human resource management. The topics will include motivation, leadership theory, group dynamics, morale, communications, control techniques and organizational climate.

12304. II/III. Marketing

An introductory course on the basic concepts of marketing and their implications in management. The ingredients of the Marketing Plan will be analysed and the problems involved in formulation marketing strategy; interpreting marketing data and coping with the changing market environment will be examined. Assessment: 30% coursework, 70% examination.

12318. II/III. Analysis and design of business information systems

This course examines the application of computer technology to business and analyses the various stages of a systems life-cycle in connection with the development of computer-based information systems.

Prerequisite: 23246 or 23129 .

12218. II/III. Financial control

This course will provide the underlying theory and descriptions of techniques and methods of financial management appropriate for a non-accounting and finance specialist. Topics will include areas of financial accounting such as the preparation of annual corporate accounts and their interpretation, the application of accounting theory to income determination and asset valuation including the influence of inflation. Certain management accounting techniques for use in decision-making will be included.

Prerequisite: 12103.

12215. II/III. Financial accounting I

An introduction to limited liability companies, and the preparation of their accounts to satisfy reporting requirements. The principles of accounting theory and its implications for periodic income determination and asset valuation for corporate and other entities.

Prerequisite: 12103.

12306. II/III. Cost accounting

The theory and techniques involved in serving the accounting needs of management in the decision making, control, evaluation and motivational aspects.

Prerequisite: 12103.

12314. II/III. Personnel management

A course on the functions and activities of the personnel manager.

12309. II/III. Finance

A course on the concepts and techniques involved in the financial decisions of companies, incorporating treasury management, sources and costs of long term finance, capital structure problems and valuation models, dividend policy, and an introduction to the efficiency of capital markets.

Prerequisite: 12103.

12313. II/III. International business

A course on the environment in which international businesses operate, the organizational and operational problems facing the multinational corporations and specific consideration in management of functional activities across national boundaries. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

12303. II/III. Quantitative analysis for business decisions

A course on the quantitative methods that are used to solve business problems and make managerial decisions. The course will involve the use of computers in the teaching process.

Prerequisite: 17101 or 17103 .

12213. II/III. Business law

An introduction to the Hong Kong legal system, the fundamentals and general principles of Hong Kong law. Other legal concepts which a manager may be expected to encounter in the business environment.

12324. II/III. Investment theory

A course on the modern portfolio theory and the various pricing models of securities.

Prerequisite: 12103.

12323. II/III. Investment analysis

A course on the analysis of various investment instruments in the financial markets.

Prerequisite: 12103.

12225. II/III. Company law

Formation of companies; memoranda and articles of association. Powers and duties of directors, secretaries and auditors. Shareholders' rights and powers and the role of the courts. Takeovers, mergers and investments; statutes, regulations and codes. Insolvency law and practice.

12234. II/III. Industrial and organizational marketing

This course examines the issues and problems encountered when marketing to industry and organizations. It analyses the social processes that can differentiate industrial and organizational buyers' behaviour from that of individual consumers and draws on regional cases.

Prerequisite: 12304.

12233. II/III. Services marketing

The course examines the characteristics of service organizations and how this affects their approach to marketing. Issues in the three dimensions of internal marketing; transactional marketing and external marketing are examined and the role of research analysed. Attention is paid to service culture and service value and the problems are illustrated by examples from Asian, American and European service firms.

Prerequisite: 12304.

Third-year Courses

12317. III. Management theory

A study of the basic concept and theory of management. An analysis of the manager's role in all types of organizations dealing with management issues in the areas of planning, organizing, staffing, directing and controlling will be included. The strategic aspects of management will also be covered.

Prerequisite: 12212.

12216. III. Financial accounting II

Applications of accounting theory to the preparation of Accounting Standards and their implications for reporting purposes, particularly those related to the consolidation of group accounts, asset valuation, and the influence of inflation on income determination.

Prerequisite: 12215.

12217. III. Organizational development

The objective of this course is to explore the problems and issues involved in the management of organizational change and development. Major approaches and attempts to conceptualize the phenomenon will be examined in a critical manner. Particular attention will be paid to problems arising from company formation, entrepreneurial ventures, company expansion and growth, maturity and bureaucratization, corporate failure and recovery. Major strategies for change will be examined.

Prerequisite: 12212.

12219. III. International marketing

This course shows how the basic principles of marketing can be applied to the problems of marketing across national boundaries and within foreign countries. Attention is paid to the development of global marketing strategies and to the different approaches needed to market consumer items; industrial goods and services internationally.

Prerequisite: 12304.

12308. III. Management accounting

A course on advanced problems in managerial accounting and management information and reporting systems for planning and control of operations. In particular it will include problems associated with large decentralized companies divisional performance control, measurement and evaluation; transfer pricing.

Prerequisite: 12306.

12315. III. Labour relations

Labour relations systems; trade union philosophy and structures; collective bargaining and modern theories and development in labour-management relationships.

12330. III. Cross cultural aspects of management

This course introduces the students to cross cultural differences in social values and in psychological attitudes, and considers their implications for behaviour in organizations. Initial consideration will be given to the process of development and the changes which that brings. This will be followed by a review of the major business cultures of Asia, contrasting them with western examples. Concentration will be focused on Chinese forms of business.

Prerequisite: 12212.

12320. III. Advertising management

The preparation, use and administration of advertising, emphasizing the use of research to direct and measure the effectiveness of each stage in the operation. Assessment: 35% coursework, 65% examination.

12307. III. Production and operations

A course to introduce a systems-orientated view of production and operations management.

Prerequisites: 12303 and 12211.

12319. III. Management information systems

This course examines the roles played by information systems in the modern business community and how information is increasingly being seen as a strategic resource in yielding competitive advantages in an organization. The interaction between systems and human beings and some technical aspects of management information systems will also be discussed.

Prerequisite: 12318.

12327. III. Decision support systems

This course studies how computer systems can be used to assist managers in making effective decisions, both structured and semi-structured, through the integrated application of model base management, knowledge base management, data base management, dialogue management and problem processing systems.

Prerequisite: 12318.

12325. III. Auditing

Professional ethics, and the social and legal responsibilities of auditors; basic auditing concepts and principles; evidence; evaluation of internal control; standard procedures and methods of investigation.

Prerequisite: 12216.

12326. III. Hong Kong taxation

A study of the accounting for, and management of, taxes on income under the Inland Revenue Ordinance, within the context of taxation theory.

Prerequisite: 12215 or 12218 .

12329. III. Corporate financial theory and policy

A course on the advanced treatment of corporate financial decisions.

Prerequisite: 12309.

12340. III. Financial markets

This course discusses developed and developing financial markets, regulatory frameworks, recent developments in securitization, internationalization of markets.

Prerequisite: 12309.

12338. III. Accounting theory

The development and structure of accounting theory. Income determination. Asset valuation. Special areas of controversy, including social accounting and accounting for inflation. Principles of human information processing.

Prerequisite: 12216.

12339. III. International accounting

Cross cultural paradigms in accounting. Accounting in the People's Republic of China. The German, Japanese and French accounting approaches. The history of the Anglo-American paradigm. Harmonization of accounting standards and practices. Transfer pricing and international tax management. International accounting bodies and firms. Cash flow statements, secret reserves and other key variations in disclosure and measurement practices in developed countries.

Prerequisite: 12216.

12220. III. Multinational corporations

This course studies the multinational enterprise (MNE) and the theoretical approaches that have been formulated to explain the growth and operation of this form of business on an international scale. Recent general theories will be considered in a critical manner to allow judgements to be made on their strengths and limitations.

Prerequisite: 12313.

12335. III. Entrepreneurship, creativity and innovation

This course explores the central issues involved in the pursuit of an entrepreneurial career in business. The nature of the course requires some novel approaches to learning and reflection, and the design of these learning activities will take advantage of a rapidly expanding intellectual core which gives meaning and coherence to entrepreneurial activities.

12336. III. Marketing research

This course will cover the broad principles of marketing research. Emphasis will be placed on the use of marketing research as an aid to decision taking. In this spirit students will be introduced to a variety of types of marketing research data. Students will be given the opportunity to engage in practical marketing research based exercises.

12221. III. The development of modern China

The course will examine the historical development of modern China and the emergence of new forces and ideologies in the recent past. This should provide a backcloth for the interpretation of the economic and social events of the present time.

12344. III. Accounting systems and financial reporting in China

The course will be an introduction to current accounting systems and financial reporting practices in China. The topics covered in this course include of administration of accounting work, accounting legislation and regulations, business accounting standards, practices of cost accounting and managerial accounting, accounting for governments and non-profit organizations (budgetary accounting), financial reporting of the listed corporations, disclosure of other information, preparation of financial statements, auditing requirements, practices of public accounting, and analysis of financial statements in China. Assessment: 35% coursework, 65% examination.

Prerequisite: 12215 or 12218 .

12345. III. Market competition and quality management

The objective of this course is to explore the problems and issues involved in the management of quality improvement and market competition. Emphasis will be on the strategic aspects of quality and marketing management and the intention is to give students exposure to important topics like customer value, quality improvement tools, quality concepts and its relationship with different aspects of marketing management.

Computer Science

Second- or Third-year Courses

23249. Information processing

To study fundamental concepts in data and file structures. Topics include: elementary data structures; searching; sorting; indexing; characteristics of storage media; file structures and access methods. Assessment: 30% coursework, 70% examination.

Examination: One three-hour written paper.

Prerequisite: 23246 or 23129 .

23277. Introduction to computer systems

This course provides an overview of computer systems and some major system programs such as compilers and operating systems. Contents include: basic computer organization; assembly language programming; linking and loading; introduction to language processors; introduction to operating systems.

Examination: One three-hour written paper.

Prerequisite: 23246.

23127. Information systems in organizations

Fundamental principles of Management Information Systems will be covered in this course. Topics include: organizational foundations of Information Systems (IS); different types of computer-based IS; managing IS resources; IS requirement analysis and design; database management; telecommunications; end user computing. Students will also learn how to use personal computers as decision support tools. Assessment: 60% coursework, 40% examination.

Examination: One three-hour written paper.

Co-requisite: 23246 or 23129 .

23296. Database design and administration

This course studies the principles, design and administration of database management systems. Emphasis is placed on the user/developer/administrator points of view. Topics include: entity -relationship model; the relational model; design theory for relational databases; query languages; query optimization; security; integrity; concurrency control; object-oriented databases; client-server technology; distributed database systems; repository systems; and database systems evolution. Projects will incorporate a database design tool and a database management system. This course may not be taken with 23278. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

Examination: One three-hour written paper.

Prerequisite: 23246 or 23129 .

Third-year Courses

23398. Information systems analysis and software development

To study the concepts and methodologies in the analysis, specification, design and management of information systems. Contents include: software engineering process; feasibility study; requirements analysis and specifications; user-interface design; software design and implementation; project estimation and planning; structured analysis and structured design; implementation and testing issues; overview of other software engineering paradigms such as object-oriented analysis and design, and formal methods; and CASE tools. A team-based term project is used to reinforce the taught concepts and methodologies.

Examination: One three-hour written paper.

Prerequisite: 23249.

23278. Principles of database management systems

This course studies the principles and the design of DBMS. Contents include: entity-relationship model; physical organization of databases; the relational model; design theory for relational databases; query languages; security and integrity; concurrency control; object-oriented databases. This course may not be taken with 23296. Assessment: 30% coursework, 70% examination.

Examination: One three-hour written paper.

Prerequisites: 23246 and 23249.

English

Students who have passed the first-year course, 03118 or 03119, will be allowed to take a minimum of 1 and maximum of 6 courses in the second and third years respectively. The courses are divided into two subject areas, List A (Language and Linguistics) and List B (Literature).

List A (Language and Linguistics): these courses focus on English language studies and linguistics, including the linguistic analysis of English, sociolinguistics, the history of linguistics, critical linguistics, and the politics of language.

List B (Literature): these courses study English, American, and Postcolonial writing. Some courses focus on an individual author or genre, others on particular literary and cultural topics.

Certain courses which cover both literary and linguistic topics are offered as either List A or List B courses.

The tutorial courses are double courses, which allow students to do research in a programme of study designed to suit their individual interests. There are no formal lectures for these courses, which consist of private study and tutorials, and are examined by assessed essays. Admission to tutorial courses is subject to satisfactory examination results and tutors' recommendations.

All double courses will be examined solely by coursework unless otherwise specified. Students must submit their written work by April 30 of that academic year.

If staffing arrangements permit, the following courses will be offered:

Second-year Courses

List A (Language and Linguistics)

03292. English phonetics and phonology

Describing English sounds; systems of description and transcription. The application of phonetics and phonology to English linguistics and general linguistics.

03297. History and structure of English (double course)

03313. Language in society

This course will provide an introduction to the study of 'sociolinguistics', which deals with the relationship between language and society. Topics will vary, but may include the following: multilingualism, language varieties, language planning, language change, English in contact with other languages.

03505. The history of English

This course will present aspects of the history of the English language in Britain, focusing on the following four areas: the method and terminology of historical linguistics, developments in the structure of English leading to the 'standard' language, the social history of these developments, and development of ideas about 'standard' English.

03513. English grammar

Approaches to grammar, models of grammatical analysis, the grammar of contemporary English. Morphology and syntax. Grammar and linguistics.

03514. Dictionaries

This course will start by considering the tradition of English dictionaries associated with the work of Johnson, Webster and Murray. It will then proceed to review current techniques of dictionary compilations, evaluating the impact of twentieth-century linguistics, computer technology, and corpus linguistics on the English dictionary today.

03515. Criminological linguistics and the literature of crime

This course will trace the development of crime fiction from its origins in the classic detective stories of the 19th century through to the socially-realistic crime novels of the present day, and will study the ways in which linguists and lexicographers have dealt with such notions as 'cant', 'argot', 'jargon', and 'the language of the underworld'.

03516. Language purism

This course will study the ways in which notions of 'verbal hygiene' have recently risen to prominence in the field of critical linguistics and related areas of study. Topics will include the following: the 'complaint tradition' in English, the politics of style, prescription and description, folk linguistics and scientific linguistics, lay views on language, and linguistic taboo.

03517. Integrational linguistics

The work of linguist and philosopher of language, Roy Harris, treated from a critical perspective. Topics will include some of the following: myths of language, the history of linguistic ideas, Harris on Saussure, semiotics and writing.

List B (Literature)

03294. English novel I

A study of narrative fiction, and of its development in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.

03295. English novel II

A study of narrative fiction, and of its development in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.

03298. Reading literature

An introduction to the theory and methodologies of literary criticism, and to issues of critical debate.v

03299. Theatre project

Individual supervised project work for students interested in theatre, film or television. Assessment: 100% coursework.

03306. Shakespeare I

This course will focus on a close reading of one Shakespearean play and include lectures relating to Shakespearean criticism.

03500. American literature I

A study of seminal texts from the period of Settlement (1620) to the Civil War (1860). Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

03501. American literature II

A study of seminal texts from the beginning of American Realism (c. 1860) to Second World War. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

03508. An introduction to English drama

A discussion of styles and themes in English drama from the seventeenth to the twentieth century. The focus will be on developments in comedy and social and historical drama.

03509. Contemporary English drama

A study of British drama in the latter half of the 20th century.

03504. English novel (double course)

The courses English novel I and II may be taken together over the two semesters of the second year, as a double course leading to a single examination.

03200. Authors and critics (double course)

A tutorial course on selected literary topics.

03518. American literature (double course)

The courses American literature I and American literature II may be taken together over the two semesters of the second year, as a double course leading to a single examination. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

List A or List B (Language and Literature)

03210. Stylistics

A stylistic and sociolinguistic survey of written English with special reference to the early modern period, the nineteenth century and the present day.

03510. Text and discourse in contemporary English

This course will examine how writers exploit the resources of English for creative and communicational purposes in contemporary writing in different genres.

03511. English in journalism

A professionally-oriented course for those interested in pursuing a career in journalism. Topics will include: the elements of style, Asian journalism in English, journalism in Hong Kong. Assessment: 100% coursework.

Third-year Courses

List A (Language and Linguistics)

03305. Varieties of English

This course will survey English accents, dialects and other 'varieties' of English, with reference to the use of English in Britain, Asia, and Hong Kong. This course will focus particularly on the historical development of 'new Englishes' in Asia and Hong Kong.

03321. Practical English phonetics

Transcription of written and spoken English. The nature and role of transcription in dictionaries, and other aids to learning English. Ear training and speech training.

03324. Advanced topics in English linguistics (double course)

A tutorial course on selected linguistic topics, with special reference to English.

03335. Politics of language

This course will review a number of issues from the perspective of 'critical linguistics'. Topics will include some of the following: English as a world language, bilingualism, language planning, language policies, language and race, mother-tongue education, language rights, and standard languages.

03336. The history of linguistics

This course will trace the history of ideas about language and its relationship to the mind and the world, from ancient to modern times, with attention to both European and Asian traditions.

03347. Advanced English phonetics and phonology

This course will provide further instruction in the theoretical underpinnings and practical applications of phonetics to the study of English and general linguistics. Topics may include the following: the history of phonetics, problems of phonological analysis, current trends in phonetics, systems of transcription, and advanced transcription exercises.

03348. Advanced English syntax

This course will provide an overview of recent theoretical linguistic approaches to the analysis of syntax. Detailed instruction in the application of at least one theoretical model to the English language will be given, and students will be expected to both deal with problem sets, and to comment critically on problems of analysis and application.

03349. Meaning and metaphor

This course will introduce students to a number of questions about linguistic meaning and examine various definitions of metaphor. Among the questions considered are: What role does metaphor play in human language? In what way (if at all) do languages create or embody particular culturally-specific world-views?

03350. Orientalism and linguistics

This course studies linguistics as a branch of what Edward Said has termed 'Orientalism', i.e. western models of Asian language, literature, culture and society created within European colonialism. It looks at the ways western linguists of the nineteenth and twentieth century have 'imagined' or categorized Asian languages, relating those categories to debates within western linguistics.

03351. The language of film and media criticism

This course is intended to complement those courses in English film studies offered under the rubric of 'literature' courses in the department, and will be offered to those students taking film studies. Topics will include: linguistic structuralism, language and semiotics, visual language and the linguistics of the visual, and the critical metalanguage of media studies.

03352. American English

This course addresses the problems (theoretical and practical) inherent in defining a variety of English as 'American'. Issues treated include the history of American English; dialectology; sociolinguistics; Black English, and the politics of American English.

List B (Literature)

03307. Shakespeare II: an extensive study of Shakespeare's works

This course will focus on Shakespearean themes and forms. Illustrations will be drawn from a range of his works.

03308. Modern tragedy

An examination of the notion of the 'tragic' in the context of twentieth-century British and American drama.

03309. The comic vision in modern drama

An exploration of the nature of stage comedy in modern British and American drama.

03310. Writing and society

This course studies imaginative representations of society in a selection of English literary texts from Shakespeare to the twentieth century.

03315. The East

Interpretations of the Orient in modern western writings, from the colonial to the postcolonial period.

03320. The sonnet in English

The course studies the language and history of poetry in English, by concentrating on the development of one of the most important of poetic forms, the sonnet, from its introduction into English writing in the sixteenth century, to its continued use and transformation by modern and contemporary writers in English.

03330. The artist as critic and critic as artist

A study of critical thought from the Romantic Period to the American New Criticism.

03331. The family in Chinese American literature

This course examines the presentation of the family in selected specimens of Chinese-American writing.

03333. Arts in society

Applied criticism of the living arts in society in a workshop setting. Assessment: 100% coursework.

03341. American literature III

The study of a selection of American modernist and postmodernist fiction, poetry and drama, chosen to represent contemporary styles, types and attitudes, and the variety of American society and writing in recent decades. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

03345. American film: text and context I

This course compares American films, their written texts, and their place within North American literature and culture. The emphasis will be on realistic fiction and film. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

03346. American film: text and context II

This course compares American films, their written texts, and their place within North American literature and culture. The emphasis will be on drama and film. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

03325. Topics in literature and criticism (double course)

A tutorial course on selected literary topics.

03502. Postcolonial readings

This course examines important works of literature in English from perspectives opened up by recent debates on 'nation', 'narration', and 'hybridity'.

List A or List B (Language and/or Literature)

03236. Creative writing (double course)

The course will develop students' skills in creative writing, and be examined by assessment of original work. Assessment: 100% coursework.

03339. The Celtic tradition in English literature

This course will introduce Celtic languages and literatures, and explore their influence on literature in English. Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.

Special Topic

Special topics will be offered.

Normally students may select one special topic only per year, but the Head of Department may give permission for this rule to be waived provided there are good academic reasons.

03240. Dissertation (double course)

The subject matter and scope of the dissertation must be approved by the department by May 30 of the year preceding the Part III Final Examination, and its allocation to List A or List B determined.

Fine Arts

Second-year Courses

04219. History of the art of Europe

This course is open only to students who have not taken 04112. See the entry under 04112 for general course description. The final examination will differ from that of 04112 and will be commensurate with the ability and experience of second-year students.

04249. History of the art of Asia

This course is open only to students who have not taken 04114. See the entry under 04114 for general course description. The final examination will differ from that of 04114 and will be commensurate with the ability and experience of second-year students.

Second- or Third-year Courses with Prerequisite

Please refer to each course entry for the prerequisite.

04205. Chinese painting and calligraphy (double course)

This course aims to improve students' understanding of Chinese painting and calligraphy. With an emphasis on methodology and connoisseurship, it will explore the transformation of forms of expression and styles of periods and individuals, as well as ideological and social factors behind the changes. In addition, the correlations between the two art forms, and their connection with Chinese philosophy and literature will also be discussed.

Prerequisite: 04114 or 04249 .

04237. Connoisseurship

The discrimination of authenticity and quality in works of art is essential to the study of art history. This course will lay equal stress on both theoretical study and practical training, and on both class discussion and outside investigation. Through demonstration and discussion of specific cases involving varied media and topics, students will learn how to make a judgement by inference on the authenticity and quality of an art work. Assessment: 100% coursework.

Prerequisite: 04114 or 04249 .

04251. Japanese ink painting: some approaches to its origins, development, and flowering in Muromachi Japan (1392?564)

This course will explore certain phases of ink painting which took root in Japan, notably Chinese traditions such as the yipin ('untrammelled') modes, wang-liang-hua ('apparition painting'), Chan painting, and some academic and literati styles. Their development in Japan, especially during the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries, will be examined from various standpoints, with attention given to the manners in which some modes came to be encoded with literary, social and religious conventions, particularly in the context of mural painting in Muromachi mansions and monastic buildings. Assessment: 100% coursework.

Prerequisite: None but 04252 or 04253 strongly recommended.

04225. The Renaissance: western art from 1300 to 1550 (offered in alternate years) (double course)

This course will cover the major trends in painting, sculpture and architecture during the Renaissance in Italy and Northern Europe (Flanders, France and Germany). Emphasis will be placed on the relationship of art objects to the cultural, religious, political and social contexts in which they were created.

Prerequisite: 04112 or 04219 .

04226. The Baroque: western art from 1550 to 1750 (offered in alternate years) (double course)

This course will examine European art of the Mannerist, Baroque and Rococo periods, with the main attention being given on the art of the seventeenth century. Emphasis will be placed on the relationship of art objects to the cultural, religious, political and social contexts in which they were created.

Prerequisite: 04112 or 04219 .

04227. The birth of the modern world: western art from 1750 to 1880 (offered in alternate years) (double course)

This course will cover European and North American art of the period 1750 to 1880, attempting to place it broadly in its historical context. Neo-Classicism, Romanticism, Realism and Impressionism will be discussed at length.

Prerequisite: 04112 or 04219 .

04228. Modernity and its discontents: western art since 1880 (offered in alternate years) (double course)

This course will consider the major trends in European and American art since the time of the Post -Impressionists. Emphasis will be placed on the relationship of art objects to the social, political and cultural contexts in which they were created.

Prerequisite: 04112 or 04219 .

04241. Religion and art along the Silk Road

There was tremendous cross fertilization of ideas along this ancient and lucrative trade route connecting China and India through Central and West Asia and from there to Europe. Buddhism provided the Asian cultural nexus. This course will look at major centres of Buddhist art along this ancient trail. Assessment: 100% coursework.

Prerequisite: 04254.

04250. Special problems in Asian art

This rubric covers courses that may be offered on Asian art from time to time by visiting scholars. The details of the course when offered will be published in the Department brochure and other media. Assessment: 100% coursework.

Prerequisite: 04114 or 04249 .

Third-year Courses with Prerequisite

The following courses are open only to third-year students. Please refer to each course entry for the prerequisite. These courses will be taught in a seminar format except for 04309. All of the courses listed below require a research paper instead of an examination.

04316. Issues in comparative art history

This team-taught course will center around certain challenging issues in the pre-modern history of both Western and Asian art. Students will be encouraged to explore ideas and visual forms in the context of different cultures. Assessment: 100% coursework.

04313. Interpreting art (double course)

With the aim of developing students' understanding of art historical methodology, various issues in the interpretation of art created in the last one hundred and fifty years will be considered. Assessment: 100% coursework.

04309. Dissertation on special topic (double course)

Students with a focus of interest and the approval of a teacher may undertake independent study to produce a paper of some ambition under the supervision of a teacher. Assessment: 100% coursework.

Second- or Third-year Courses without Prerequisite

The following courses require no previous study of art history.

04213. Reformism and traditionalism in twentieth-century Chinese painting

Taking a general view of the major trends in Chinese painting of this century, this course will explore how political, social, and cultural changes have affected the artists' thoughts and practices. Most of the important artists and painting schools of this century will be covered. Assessment: 50% coursework and a one-and-a-half-hour examination (50%).

04214. Japanese art: the interactive dimension

This course will explore some aspects of Japanese art and artistically defined environments. These include architecture, gardens, exhibitions of art, and tea-oriented environments, in which differing forms of audience participation are expected. The nature of such responses will be examined in terms of aesthetic codes and their associated mythology, metaphysics, or philosophy. Assessment: 100% coursework.

04215. Women and art

This course will focus on two main issues. The first is the question of women as artists, which will include discussion of women artists and their art in the West from the Renaissance to the present day. The second main issue to be considered is that of the treatment of women as subject matter in art. Female stereotypes such as the virgin, mother, prostitute, and witch will be examined, as will the use of women as erotic symbols. Assessment: 50% coursework and a one-and-a-half-hour examination (50%).

04245. The archaeology of ancient China

This course is an introduction to Chinese archaeology from its Paleolithic foundation up to the Eastern Han Dynasty in the second century. This course will cover theories, methods, and data that are concerned with three principal issues of the field: the origin of anatomically modern humans, the origin and development of agriculture, and the formation of the state and civilization in the land today we call China.

04246. Introduction to Chinese ceramics

This course is an introduction to Chinese ceramics, from the earliest wares of the Neolithic period up to the sophisticated porcelains of the Qing Dynasty. This course will emphasize stylistic development, techniques of manufacture, and fundamentals of connoisseurship. Assessment: 100% coursework.

04248. Shining jades from ancient China

Based on authentic and well dated material from archaeological discoveries, this course will explore the qualities and the uses of jade through the ages with a focus on the period from the Neolithic to the Han. Important topics of this course will include the material, techniques, functional types, and regional styles of jade as well as its ritual significance and social implications. Assessment: 100% coursework.

04208. Japanese art: the poetics of the native narrative painting tradition

This course will examine the origins and growth of native aesthetics in the context of the mediaeval narrative painting tradition. Topics explored will include the tensions born from accommodation of Chinese themes and styles, the emergence of a distinctly Japanese aesthetic code, the dialectics of the 'female mode' and the 'male mode', mediaeval narrative devices, and the role of humour, cartoons and the grotesque. Assessment: 100% coursework.

04252. Pearls of Japanese art I: early to 1333

This course will introduce students to developments in Japanese art from the earliest times to 1333 AD.

A primary focus will be on the various arts of Buddhism as they developed during this era, and the course will incorporate some discussion of the developments in China and Korea which were introduced to Japan, and there took root and flowered as the mainstream traditions of early medieval Japan.

The arts of Buddhism, and especially what was known as Pure Land Buddhism, will be seen in a great variety of forms as they developed during this era in Japan, together with native traditions in secular art, including painting and calligraphy, architecture, sculpture, garden art and other minor arts, produced in Heian and Kamakura Periods.

This course is designed to be taken either independently, by those interested in the early development of Japanese culture, or in combination with either 04254 on the early development of Buddhist art in India, and Central Asia, or 04253.

04253. Pearls of Japanese art II: 1333-1868

This course will discuss the developments seen in Japan from the re-introduction of Chinese culture to Japan in the 13th century, in the form of Song painting, architecture and other traditions, through a variety of developments in the early modern period, including Rimpa painting, pottery and lacquers, the arts of the tea ceremony, 'southern school painting', prints of the 'floating world', 'Nihonga' and more. The course will focus attention on diversity of patronage, social change, the emergence of an early modern identity in the arts, and the setting of the stage for Japan's remoulding and modernizing the arts of her medieval past.

This course can be taken together with 04252 , or separately. No previous knowledge of Japanese culture or language is assumed.

04254. Images of enlightenment: the genesis of Buddhist art

This course is designed as an introduction to the Buddhist art and thought of Asia. Buddhist art originated in India and then spread in the early centuries of the Christian era to various countries in Asia. Select themes from Buddhist art will be studied. Assessment: 100% coursework.

04255. Visions of the divine: scared art in India

This course will study certain typologies of the sacred as represented in India and some of its neighbouring countries. It will discuss notions of sacred space and sacred narrative, the relationship between royal gods and divine kings. Assessment: 100% coursework.

Prerequisite: None. However, 04254 highly recommended.

04256. Special studies in the history of art

This rubric covers courses that may be offered from time to time by visiting scholars. The details of the course when offered will be published in the Department brochure and other media. Assessment: 100% coursework.

Geography and Geology

Second-year Courses

05227. Urban geography (double course)

This course provides an introduction to the general field of urban geography. Major themes will include: scope and nature of urban geography, urbanization, city growth, theories on settlement patterns, city functions, city types, urban land-use, residential structure, intra-urban shopping and service provision, and intra-urban inequalities.

05203. Economic geography (double course)

An introduction to the explanation of the geographical distribution of economic activities. A framework will be established for identifying what is the activity; where it occurs; and why it occurs where it does. This requires a discussion of the structure of economic activities and their interrelations; and the elements and processes. The dynamics of the present world economy will also be discussed, and the role of theories and models will be introduced with particular reference to the explanation of locational choice and change.

05256. Computing techniques in geography

The course aims to introduce various computing techniques for the analysis of geographic data. A series of computer-based practicals is structured to provide a basic understanding of geographic techniques in an applied setting. All practicals are designed for completion within a 2-hour practical session. Specifically, the course covers thematic mapping, interaction and network modelling, geographic information systems approach, geographic analysis and data interpretation. At the end of the course, students should have gained familiarity with some representative software and be able to differentiate types of spatial problems, apply various techniques, and interpret results. Assessment: 30% end-of -semester evaluation, 45% final project, 25% coursework.

Prerequisite: 17101 or 17103 (should be taken and passed either in the first or second year).

05255. Overseas field trip and tutorials

(For students taking eight courses in Geography only.)

This course is continuous throughout the second and third years, comprising field work and tutorial components. For the field work, students will be expected to complete one 'two weeks' overseas residential field camp (between December in the second year and December in the third year), and to produce a field work report on the participated field trip. As for tutorials, students will be required to attend a number of tutorial group discussions, make presentations, and complete a series of written assignments. Assessment is based on the field trip report, written assignments and overall tutorial performance, to be regarded as one paper in the Final Examination Part III.

Second- or Third-year Courses

05226. Population geography (double course)

The aim of this course is to provide a comprehensive review of the major issues in the field of population. A central theme will be the interrelationships between population and the environment that result in demographic change. Students will be introduced to the basic variables, fertility, mortality and migration and how these are measured. The various interpretations of demographic change will be examined as well as issues such as the population 'problem', aging, disease, and population policies.

05251. China: the land and the people

This course provides a geographical foundation for an understanding of the environment and culture of China. Lectures will be constructed essentially around four themes: (a) the physical environment and landscape; (b) resources, energy, and environmental issues; (c) the spatial pattern of peopling, and the evolution of the production system; and (d) the contemporary population, including its demography, composition, spatial distribution, and impact on economic and social development.

05250. China: development issues

This course on the systematic geography of China analyses major development issues since 1949: agriculture, mining, fishery, manufacturing and industrialization, urbanization, population, transportation, trade, regional development, etc. Students are introduced to the different assessments and interpretations of China's development, and China's overall economic development strategies and its changing space economy are also examined.

Prerequisite: 05251.

05257. Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia

This course is designed to provide an overview of contemporary geographical issues in the major sub -regions of the newly emerging 'Pacific-Asian' region: Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. These three sub -regions will be studied from the historical, geographical, social, economic, and environmental perspectives. Principal topics of discussion include population growth, economic development, and problems associated with rapid industrialization and urbanization such as environmental degradation and regional disparities.

05306. Agricultural geography

This course is divided into three parts. After an introduction of some western-derived social and economic models, discussion focuses upon the transformation of peasant agriculture under capitalism and socialism. The second part deals with the relations of cropping systems to various environmental factors. In the third part, some basic global agricultural problems are considered.

05349. Geography of urbanization

This course will attempt to examine the varying forms, factors and consequences of urbanization that have been experienced in different parts of the world. It will include topics on the nineteenth century urbanization in the western world, twentieth century urbanization of North America, post-war urbanization in the Third World and Western Europe.

Prerequisite: 05227.

Third-year Courses

05322. Development studies

The approaches to the study of development are outlined and various models of economic development are discussed. Particular attention is given to the structure of power, agrarian transformation, strategies of industrialization, urbanization and migration, and regional co-operation. The themes of the course revolve around the growing economic interdependence of the world in an era of increasing political independence and the geographical implications of these apparently opposing forces.

A weekend field camp may form an integral part of the course.

Prerequisite: 05203.

05307. Industrial geography

Reviews the structure and location of industrial activities world-wide and regional industrial concentrations in the Pacific. Takes into account the changing importance of different factors of location; the role of international trade and economic growth; and includes consideration of planning industrial location.

Prerequisite: 05203.

05304. Social geography

This course seeks to understand the processes underlying human spatial behaviour in the city. It will begin with an examination of the nature and methods of social geography. A number of current themes in urban social geography will then be studied: geographic space perception, housing supply and demand, consumer behaviour, social inequality and social deviance.

Prerequisite: 05227.

05341. Transport geography

This course provides an exposition of the underlying theories, regularities and processes leading to an understanding of the nature of transportation in the context of territorial organization and transformation.

Prerequisite: 05227 or 05203 .

05342. Urban transportation systems

This course examines the theories of urban transport, followed by an in-depth discussion of traffic demand, transport and traffic management, transport planning and policy, and transport project evaluation.

Prerequisite: 05341.

05344. Introduction to geographic information systems (GIS)

This course introduces students to the computer-assisted techniques of geographic data analysis, collectively known as GIS, which involve the overlaying and merging of spatial data layers. The principles of such an approach will be discussed focusing on the nature of the spatial data, raster and vector data structures, data transformation and geocoding, modelling techniques, and accuracy evaluation of spatial databases. Students will be required to complete a series of practicals to reinforce lecture discussions.

Prerequisite: None. But it is advantageous to the students if they have taken 05256.

05348. Design and applications in geographic information systems (GIS)

This course seeks to provide an understanding of theoretical principles of important mathematical, computing, and data dimensions underlying the creation and utilization of a geographic information system (GIS). Specifically, it covers spatial data representation, conceptual modelling, logical and internal modelling, and spatial knowledge engineering. Included in the discussion are GIS applications to spatial phenomena (terrain, soil, images, socio-economic indicators, integrated use with picture data bases, etc.) using 2-dimensional and/or 3-dimensional representations; advantages of 2D versus 3D graphic semiology and their precision and graphic resolution; and case studies of artificial intelligence and expert mapping systems. Project and laboratory exercises are an integral part of the course.

Prerequisite: 05344.

History

Second- and Third-year Courses

06234. Qing China (double course)

This course presents new interpretations of the last dynastic government of China with an emphasis on its political, social, economic, institutional and cultural dimensions.

06244. Nineteenth-century Europe, 1789-1918 (double course)

This course aims to provide a survey in depth of this important period in European history which includes the French Revolution, the genesis and outbreak of the Russian Revolution, the development of socialist ideas, the rise of Germany, industrialization, imperialism, and the First World War. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06299. Modern Southeast Asia, Part I: eighteenth and nineteenth centuries

This is the first half of a general survey course (together with 06500), covering traditional societies in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, the impact of Western colonialism and capitalism on these societies up to about 1910, and the first stirrings of resistance to this imperialist advance. Southeast Asia includes the present-day states of Myanmar(Burma), Thailand(Siam), Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06500. Modern Southeast Asia, Part II: the twentieth century

This is the second half of a general survey course (together with 06299), beginning around 1910, with colonialism firmly established in most of Southeast Asia, and covering the rise of nationalism, Second World War and the Japanese occupation, the coming of political independence, and recent developments in the region. Southeast Asia includes the present-day states of Myanmar(Burma), Thailand(Siam), Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06521. The United States and the Pacific: United States-Pacific and United States-East Asian interactions up to 1945

This course examines American involvement with the Pacific and East Asia from the 1790s to 1945, with primary emphasis on the twentieth century. Main themes include the development of American commercial interests in the Pacific and East Asia, American involvement in the unequal treaty system, the growth of American power through acquisition of colonial bases in Hawaii and the Philippines, US relations with China and Japan, and US involvement in the Pacific War. Socio-cultural topics, such as Asian emigration to America, racism, and American intellectual and cultural impact upon China and Japan, are mentioned for background depth. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06503. The city in East Asian history (double course)

This course focuses on the comparative historical development of East Asian cities with emphasis on China and Japan. In particular the shifting roles of these cities, from agricultural service centres, agricultural dependencies or as solely local cultural, religious, or administrative centres to the position of integral parts of national industrial economies, will be examined. An introduction to the scholarly literature and research resources of the urban field will also be provided. The first half is identical to 06504 and the second half is identical to 06505. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06504. The city in East Asian history, Part I

This course is a comparative survey of Chinese and Japanese urban history from the origins of city development to what has been called 'medieval urban revolution'. Students are encouraged to take this course prior to 06505. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06505. The city in East Asian history, Part II

This course is a comparative survey of Chinese and Japanese urban history from the rapid urbanization of the medieval urban revolution to the modern period. Students are encouraged to have already taken 06504. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06316. Revolutionary China, 1911-1949 (double course)

This course examines the major developments in Chinese history from the 1911 Revolution through the demise of monarchical order, cultural reorientation, socio-economic crises, wars and civil wars, to the triumph of the Communist Party and the establishment of the People's Republic. Besides factual knowledge, this course affords students a number of interpretations, conceptual constructs and research methodologies, as well as bibliographic suggestions for each topic. This course follows an interdisciplinary, comparative approach and focuses on major themes and areas of scholarly discourse.

The first half (identical to 06506) will offer both an historical review of the main phases of the Republican era and in-depth analytical coverage of key dimensions of the political processes and institutional transformation of Revolutionary China.

The second half (identical to 06507) will offer in-depth analytical coverage of selected aspects of the ideo -cultural, social and economic developments in Revolutionary China. It will also provide a reappraisal of some of the key issues in the modern Chinese revolution. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06506. Revolutionary China, 1911-1949, Part I

For general description, see 06316. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06507. Revolutionary China, 1911-1949, Part II

For general description, see 06316. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06343. Europe since the First World War (double course)

This course covers the main developments in European history from the First World War until the collapse of the Soviet Union in August 1991. Between 1918 and 1945 special emphasis is placed on Fascism, German Nazism and Communism, which appeared as part of the general crisis of Western Civilization after 1918. The survey of Europe after the Second World War focuses on Britain, France and Germany, and the way Communism evolved in the Soviet bloc, concluding with consideration of the significance of the popular revolutions that toppled the Communist regimes in Eastern Europe and the collapse of Communism in Russia. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06510. Hong Kong during the Qing and Republican periods

This course provides a survey of the history of Hong Kong, concentrating on the colonial period up to Second World War. The focus of attention is on the main themes of British imperialism and Chinese nationalism, while also covering topics such as economic and urban development, class formation, participation in China's revolution and early industrialization. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06276. Growth of the United States as a world power: survey of American history to 1900 (double course)

This is a general survey history of United States history from the colonial era up to 1900. The course will explore the growth and expansion of the United States with main emphases on the political economy of nation building and modernization, including social and cultural aspects. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06298. Nineteenth-century Russia

This course surveys developments within the Russian Empire from the duel between Alexander I and Napoleon up to the Revolution of 1905, the dress rehearsal for the Revolution of 1917 which destroyed Tsarism. This course focuses on internal developments, rather than on foreign policy; and thus includes topics such as Slavophilism vs. Westernizers, the tsarist reaction and then reforms under Nicholas I and Alexander II, the revolutionary movement from the Decembrists to the Bolsheviks, industrialization, the Nationalities Question, and the peasantry before and after Emancipation. This course requires no prior knowledge of European history. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06287. Twentieth-century Russia

A major purpose of this course is to make the current, revolutionary developments in that huge superpower more comprehensible through an understanding of its recent history. This course surveys Russia throughout this century; the origins of the 1917 Revolution, a revolution which transformed not only Russia, but also the whole world; then the development of the Soviet Union from Lenin through Stalin up through Brezhnev; and finally, the momentous developments of the past ten years which caused the collapse of the Soviet Union. Students need not have prior knowledge of nineteenth century Russian history or European history. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06357. The United States in the twentieth century (double course)

This course traces the United States response to its adjustment from an agrarian, small-scale society, to a large-scale, urban, industrialized nation, characterized by large organizations. It also covers the United States' development into a world power. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06273. Japan, 1500-1912 (double course)

This course surveys the major developments in late traditional and modern Japanese history. It examines some of the key issues in the remarkable transformation of Japan from the feudal era through the 1868 Meiji Restoration and the subsequent efforts to turn Japan into a modern nation-state and imperialist power. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06285. Modern Japan, 1912-1945

This course is a general survey of the domestic political, economic and social history of Japan until 1945 in the context of heavy industrialization and changing systems of international relations. The roots of Japan's political and economic systems are discussed with frequent reference to post-1945 developments. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06286. Modern Japan since 1945

This course is a general survey which examines the domestic developments and problems which emerge in Japan with rapid political change and economic growth after 1945 as Japan recovered from Second World War. A series of videos will amplify the changes in society and the economy. No prerequisites, but 06285 is an advantage. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06297. The foreign relations of China, Part I: 1895-1949

Having been forced to abandon the Chinese World Order and the countries in it, China under the late Qing and Republican governments fought for, and eventually gained great power status in international diplomacy. There were many betrayals and bitter reversals and at the end, the question remains: was she a great power? Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06335. The foreign relations of China, Part II: since 1949

This course studies the development of China's foreign relations after 1949 with reference to historical influences, ideological premises and practical political, strategic, and economic considerations. Special attention is given to the interaction between theory and practice in China's foreign relations, the evaluation of the impact of China's foreign policy on international politics and vice versa, and the assessment of the major approaches to the study of the topic. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06124. Early modern Europe, 1648-1789

A survey course which traces the emergence of the major states of modern Europe out of the hereditary monarchies of the medieval period. While the course concentrates primarily on political developments in Europe between the Thirty Years' War and the French Revolution, considerable attention is also paid to social, economic and cultural developments in this period. This course provides a useful introduction to the courses 06244. Nineteenth-century Europe, 1789-1918 and 06343. Europe since the First World War. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06511. Issues in women's history

This course is open to second- and third-year students interested in the field of women's history. Although the discipline as traditionally practised in the United States, Western Europe, and Australia has thrived as a critique of inherited narrative, it has also been criticized, along with other areas in women's studies, as being faddish, elitist, 'victim studies', and increasingly removed from the economic and socio-political realities of women's lives presently as well as in the past. Drawing upon this profound tension within the field to inform our discussion, we will consider the following questions: What is women's history? How has women's history influenced traditional historical narratives? How does interdisciplinarity inform methodology in the field? Where does one look for sources, primary and secondary, within the field? How do theoretical perspectives contest for prominence in the enterprise of telling stories about women's lives? How is gender implicated in the interrationship between power and socially constructed knowledge? Can gender ever be considered separately from race, class, or ethnicity? Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06518. Overseas Chinese communities

This course examines the history of Chinese emigration from the mainland and the character of the various communities the migrants and their descendants formed overseas, particularly in Southeast Asia and North America. Among the themes covered will be the demography of migration, the economic role of the migrants within their host societies, the internal organization of Chinese communities overseas, the rise of nationalism, the effects of the Pacific War, and the 'generational' differences among early migrants, their descendants, and later migrants.

06289. China-Hong Kong relations in historical and contemporary perspectives

This course offers a critical retrospective on China-Hong Kong interactions during the past one and a half centuries. It will examine major cases of conflict and collaboration between China and Hong Kong within the context of the emergence of modern Chinese nationalism, anticolonialism, popular mobilization, crises of legitimacy, revolution and counterrevolution, communism and cold war politics as well as the recent decolonization-democratization process toward the 1997 sovereignty retrocession. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06512. Hong Kong from World War II to the Cultural Revolution

This course covers Japanese rule, the re-establishment of British colonial rule, the estrangement of Hong Kong's economy from China due to the Korean War embargo, rapid industrialization and the resulting social problems up to 1967. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06513. Hong Kong from the Cultural Revolution to Reunification

This course covers the post-1967 reform, government efforts to regain legitimacy, economic reintegration with China during the Four Modernizations period, the emergence of a distinct Hong Kong culture, the boom-bust capitalist cycle and post-industrialism. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06272. The Atlantic community: America and Europe in the twentieth century

This course focuses upon growing United States involvement in European affairs during the twentieth century, discussing those factors which promoted this development. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06290. The traditional foreign policy of China in the nineteenth century

This course examines the traditional foreign policy of China and its modification in the nineteenth century by the three major international 'system' the Canton System with the maritime powers, the Kiakhta System with Russia, and the Treaty Ports System which replaced them. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06291. Revolutions in modern Europe

This course examines some of the revolutions that have shaped modern European history. Special attention is devoted to the French Revolution, the revolutions of 1848, the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917 and twentieth century revolutions of the right such as Nazism. The course concludes with a study of how revolution spread from one Eastern European Communist country to another in 1989 (a similar domino style phenomenon occurred in the revolutions of 1848), and with the final collapse of Communism in Russia itself. An evaluation is made of the debate between different generations of historians on what these revolutions signified. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06292. The history of the environment of China

This course examines the environmental factors (as well as the interaction of man and the environment) that have shaped Chinese history for the past 5,000 years. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06293. Tudor England, 1485-1603

Henry VIII and Elizabeth I are the central figures in a century of political and religious change in England, a century which laid the foundations of the British Empire and the Westminster system of parliamentary government. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06353. American social and cultural history

This course analyses changes in the United States society and popular culture accompanying technological and politico-economic modernization in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06271. The Chinese and Hong Kong labour movement, 1884-1949

This course offers an inter-disciplinary approach to some of the major issues of the labour movement in China and in Hong Kong from the late Qing period to 1949 as crucial aspects of the socio-economic and political transformation of China. Particular emphasis is placed on the problems of collective consciousness, modes of organization and popular mobilization within the context of state-society interaction. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06294. The rural economy of Guangdong Province, 1870-1937

This course introduces to students a significant body of Western literature on the controversial subject of the late Qing and Republican rural economy. It uses the case of Guangdong to examine the points raised by scholars belonging to different schools of thought. Special attention is drawn to the man-land ratio, the production of the staple food crop, trade, the commercialization of agriculture, land tax, rent and rural credit. Although distinctive in significant ways, Guangdong's rural economic evolution displayed a pattern that was congenial with the trend of development throughout China. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06295. The Cold War

This course focuses upon the emergence of the Cold War in the 1940s and 1950s. Students are expected to make extensive use of documentary evidence. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06347. Aspects of European intellectual history

This course provides students with an understanding of two themes from nineteenth century European intellectual history which illuminate many important developments that were to take place in twentieth century Europe. The first is concerned with the revolt against the Enlightenment and rationalism, and the rejection of reason in favour of the unconscious. Here a number of original intellectuals and colourful figures beginning with the Romantics and moving through to Dostoyevsky, Burckhardt and Freud are studied. The second theme deals with protests against Europe's new industrial society and its value. The views of anarchists, of Karl Marx, and of the Russian populists are examined. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06270. The history of modern Shanghai, 1842 to the present

Shanghai's distinctive nineteenth and twentieth century development are the focus of this course and will provide an urban perspective on modern Chinese history. The requirements of the course include seminars that focus on historically problematic questions as well as a research paper on a topic chosen by the student. This exercise is designed to acquaint the individual with basic research techniques. This course is of particular interest for students who wish to pursue careers in teaching, civil service, urban government or in the business sector. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06296. Guangdong and the Chinese communist movement, 1921-1937

Instead of looking at the Chinese communist movement as a whole, this course seeks to look at its development in one important province in China, and one which is also of vital interest to Hong Kong, from the inception of the Chinese Communist Party to the founding of the People's Republic of China. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06283. Early Qing institutions and society, 1644-1684

This is an intensive study of the relationships between the Manchu conquerors and the subjugated Chinese, of the ways the former made use of the Chinese, and the reactions the latter gave to the alien rule. The period under discussion is relatively short to provide in-depth investigation into the intriguing problems of racial relations, cultural divergences and political differences. The resulting political and social structure of this period provides the foundation for later development into high Qing of the eighteenth century. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06288. Late Qing government and society, 1900-1911

Despite the fact that Qing China in its last decade was running out of time, it made a last but rather vigorous attempt at political and institutional reform. Historians tend to ignore reforms that lead to nowhere, but it is academically fruitful to analyse the nature of any reform movement and find out the reasons for its success/failure. The course also has another target: to describe and explain the changing social forces of the time. While the Confucian tenets had been losing hold on society, new forces and classes were emerging to replace the old elite. These new social forces had to be reckoned with not only locally, but also at the Capital. An investigation is made to see whether these new social forces played a role in causing the downfall of the old regime. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06522. The United States and the Pacific since 1945

This course covers interactions between the United States and the Pacific, especially the countries of East and Southeast Asia, during the half-century since the end of the Pacific War. Topics will include the US involvement in wars in China, Korea, and Vietnam, as well as recent diplomatic interactions, American images of Asia and the changing conditions of Asian-Americans in the United States. In explaining American policy particular attention will be paid to the analysis of primary sources, both in class and in student assignments. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06519. The Renaissance

The course examines the ongoing debate surrounding the intellectual and artistic upheavals which took place in Europe at the end of the medieval period and which are generally described as 'The Renaissance'. This discussion will be placed in the context of the economic and political history of Europe at the beginning of the early modern period but the main emphasis of the course will be on the use of the Renaissance as an organising concept, especially in later periods of European history. While the main focus will be on the Italian Renaissance, the wider European context of the Renaissance will also be considered. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06520. The Reformation

This course examines the various historical interpretations of the intellectual and religious upheavals which took place in Europe in the early sixteenth century and which are known collectively as 'The Reformation'. These developments will be considered in both their national and international contexts, but the main focus of the course will be upon the ways in which the Reformation has been used by historians as an organising concept in European history. The course will examine the historical debates and controversies generated by the Reformation from the sixteenth century through to the present day and will explore the ways in which religious history has been used for political purposes in Europe over the last five centuries. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

06354. A special topic in history

From time to time, the department will offer special courses under this title. Students may find details each year in the department's handbook. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

Third-year Course

06362. The theory and practice of history

This course aims to acquaint students with some of the theoretical and practical considerations which underlie the study and writing of history. This course is offered only to students who are taking a major in history. It is especially recommended to those who are taking the dissertation elective or who wish to pursue history at the postgraduate level. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

Japanese Studies

Teaching is by means of classes, tutorials, seminars and oral-aural instruction. The examination and coursework weighting shall be in the ratio of 50:50.

In the second and third years, students wishing to take further language intensive courses in the Department of Japanese Studies must satisfy the teachers that they have obtained sufficient proficiency in the Japanese language to be able to follow their contents. They should, therefore, approach individual staff members of the Department if they wish to take these courses.

However the following interdisciplinary content courses are open to all second- and third- year students in the Faculty of Social Sciences:

Second Year

88103. Japanese language I (a)

This course is open to first- and second-year students with no previous knowledge of the language. The course provides a balanced training in reading, writing, speaking and listening and is intended to help students build linguistic and communicative skills in Japanese.

88231. Introduction to classical Japanese

This tutorial based language intensive course provides an opportunity to read and discuss classical Japanese literary texts from different periods. The course will start with an introduction to the grammar of classical Japanese, based on comparisons with the grammar of contemporary Japanese. The texts are selected with a view to introducing the development of the Japanese language during the past 1,000 years. Through the study of older forms of the Japanese language, students may improve and deepen their understanding of modern Japanese. It is open to second-year students of Japanese Studies, as well as to students from other departments and faculties who may have an academic interest in the course, provided that they have knowledge of Japanese corresponding to at least one-year of Japanese Studies.

Second- and Third-year Courses

88229. Japanese language II (a)

This intermediate level Japanese language course is open to students from the Faculty of Social Sciences who have successfully completed Japanese language I (a) in their first or second year. The course provides further training in reading, writing, speaking and listening Japanese and is designed to help students develop their linguistic and communicative skills in the language.

88221. Advertising and media in Japan

This interdisciplinary content course ¡X taught by lectures and tutorials ¡X focuses on the role of advertising and media in contemporary Japan. After a brief historical overview, the course looks at the functions of different divisions within a Japanese advertising agency and examines their relations with both clients, on the one hand, and media organizations, on the other. Apart from this focus on advertising as social process, tutorials will also examine advertisements as finished products, making use of semiotic and hermeneutic analyses.

88222. Japanese business: an anthropological introduction

This interdisciplinary content course ¡X taught by lectures and tutorials ¡X focuses on various aspects of Japanese business. It is particularly concerned with the social organization and culture of the Japanese salaryman, and deals with such varied topics as company socialization, decision-making, management procedures, gender relations, leisure activities, sake drinking, and so on.

88223. Anthropology of Japan

This interdisciplinary content course ¡X taught by lectures and tutorials ¡X is designed to provide undergraduate students specializing in Japanese Studies with a comprehensive introduction to, and understanding of, certain aspects of contemporary Japanese society. As such it will focus on such themes as kinship, rural communities, new religions, art and popular culture.

88225. Education in Japan

This interdisciplinary content course ¡X taught by lectures and tutorials ¡X examines the Japanese educational system. It will start with an introduction to the history and development of educational policies in Japan and attitudes towards education in a comparative perspective. The contemporary educational system will be presented, together with an outline of present-day discussions about education in Japan. The different actors in this discussion will be defined, and the issue of educational reform discussed.

88226. Women in Japan

This interdisciplinary content course ¡X taught by lectures and tutorials ¡X focuses on the issue of gender in Japan. It will start with a brief overview of women's positions in Japan in various historical periods to provide a background for dealing with women's roles and positions in contemporary Japanese society. The course will focus on how girls are socialized and educated, on women's role in the family, the work place, and in public life. Throughout the course the complementary roles of men and women will be examined, so that a picture of the roles and positions of men in Japan will also emerge.

88232. Contemporary Japanese economy, society and culture

This interdisciplinary content course ¡X taught by lectures and tutorials ¡X touches on various aspects of contemporary Japanese society. It is particularly concerned with the relations between the post-war economic development, on the one hand, and, society and culture, on the other. As such it will focus on such themes as politics, nationalism, education, religion, consumerism, popular culture, and so on. It is open to both second- and third-year students of Japanese Studies, as well as to students from other departments and faculties who may have an academic interest in the course.

88233. Japanese and Asian religions

This interdisciplinary content course ¡X taught by lectures and tutorials ¡X looks at the various religious traditions in Japan and other parts of Asia, including Shinto, Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, new religious movements, and forms of folk religion. The course will focus not only on the teachings and history of these traditions but also on their contemporary manifestations and their impact on people's lives. The course is concerned primarily with a comparative examination of religious world views between Japan and other Asian societies. It is open to both second- and third-year students of Japanese Studies, as well as to students from other departments and faculties who may have an academic interest in the course.

Language Centre

Group A:

Second-year Courses

86226. French II

This course is taught throughout the year and is a continuation of French I. The intention is to build further on the first-year work and widen the scope of exposure to more complex aspects of the language. The teaching will diversify through the use of more elaborate material and other techniques such as video. Participants are expected to consolidate their understanding of French language and develop their production and reception skills.

Examination: One two-hour written paper, an oral examination.

86227. German II

This course is taught throughout the year and consists of two components: (a) Intermediate German and (b) Media Workshop.

Intermediate German

In this component students will acquire skills that will allow them to understand more difficult texts and statements and to express themselves in more complex statements. They will participate in discussions on various issues relating to contemporary life in Germany.

Media Workshop

The basic aim of this component is to provide a conductive environment for the participants to communicate with each other in German and make them aware of paralinguistic features which not only aid communication between native speakers, but very often form an essential part of communication. The participants will perform audio/video recordings of their own scripts. Topics may include interviews, domestic scenes, social scenes, commercials, etc.

Examination: One two-hour written paper, an oral examination.

Third-year Courses

86365. French III

This course is taught throughout the year and continues to build on the two previous years work on a more advanced level. The intention is to lead participants towards a fairly comprehensive understanding of the French language features through the study of a variety of documents (written, audio and video). The selection of documents will also serve as a basis for discussion on some social issues regarding contemporary France, as well as her history and cultural background.

Examination: One three-hour written paper, an oral examination.

86366. German III

This course is taught throughout the year and consists of two components: (a) Advanced German and (b) Translation.

Advanced German

The intention of this component is to lead students to a fairly comprehensive understanding of both written and spoken German. Through the study of selected texts and materials from different spheres the students will learn to summarize information and to express the content of a text in their own words in German.

Translation

This component mainly aims at further developing the students' written language skills. German /English texts will be translated into English/German. The majority of the texts will be taken from the areas of business, literature, and contemporary life in Germany.

Examination: One three-hour written paper, an oral examination.

Group B:

Second-year Courses

86225. French II.1 (double course)

This course is taught throughout the year and continues to build on the first-year work. It offers a balanced range of the various language skills through further syntax acquisition, reading and text analysis, listening comprehension, composition, translation, oral expression and communicative skills. A wide variety of teaching techniques and materials is used. Small tutorial groups are arranged throughout the year to ensure maximum opportunities for interactive practice. All students intending to continue the study of French in their third year are strongly encouraged to attend a summer intensive immersion course in France.

Coursework may include the following: (i) periodic assignments; (ii) progress tests; and (iii) other coursework as prescribed, such as long essays, translations, directed reading, etc.

Examination: One three-hour written paper, an oral examination.

86228. French II.2 (double course)

This course will be based on the exploitation of authentic material and documents drawn from various contemporary French media and sources. The main emphasis will be on the development of reception skills, i.e., aural/reading. The objective of this course will be twofold: first, through an analytic approach, to make the students familiar with the actual use of French as a medium conveying information, opinions, ideas and feelings. Second, to provide the students with first-hand facts and details about French contemporary society and the type of issues which confront the French people. It is expected that this course will serve as a solid preparation for the period of time the students are advised to spend in the country during the summer at the end of their second year. This course is taught throughout the year.

Coursework may include the following: (i) periodic assignments; (ii) progress tests; and (iii) other coursework as prescribed, such as long essays, translations, directed reading, etc.

Examination: One three-hour written paper.

86223. German II.1 (double course)

This course is taught throughout the year and continues to build on the first-year work. It offers a balanced range of the various language skills through further syntax acquisition: reading and text analysis, listening comprehension, composition, translation, oral expression and communicative skills. A wide variety of teaching techniques is used. Small tutorial groups are arranged throughout the year to ensure maximum opportunities for interactive practice. All students intending to continue the study of German in their third year are strongly encouraged to attend a summer intensive immersion course in Germany.

Coursework may include the following: (i) periodic assignments; (ii) progress tests; and (iii) other coursework as prescribed, such as long essays, translations, directed reading, etc.

Examination: One three-hour written paper, an oral examination.

86224. German II.2 (double course)

This course is taught throughout the year and provides an introduction to geographical, political, social and cultural aspects of contemporary Germany as well as to historical developments in Germany in the twentieth century. Various materials, such as slides, videos, etc. are used to illustrate the lectures. In addition, the course further enhances and extends the language skills acquired in the first year and in German II.1 through extensive work with audio-visual materials and media in small tutorial groups where apart from reinforcing the content of the lectures, emphasis is also placed on making students aware of paralinguistic features which often form an essential part of communication.

Coursework may include the following: (i) periodic assignments; (ii) progress tests; and (iii) other coursework as prescribed, such as long essays, translations, directed reading, etc.

Examination: One three-hour written paper.

Third-year Courses

86361. French III.1 (double course)

This course is taught throughout the year in lectures and tutorials and continues to build on the first- and second-year work. Lectures will make use of literary texts, authentic documents (press etc.), both from France and French-speaking countries, with the aim to stimulate critical reading. This study of authentic materials will also help students to investigate further French civilization and contemporary culture. In tutorials, emphasis will be put on the exploration of various techniques of writing as well as the development of oral skills in the context of argumented discourses and presentations.

Coursework may include: (i) projects: these may range from research, to drama, to oral presentation, to translation, and can also include projects based on newspapers and other documentary investigation, as well as creative writing. They will normally be presented in the target language (French), but parts of the presentation might also be in English; (ii) periodic assignments; (iii) other coursework, as prescribed.

Examination: One three-hour written paper, an oral examination.

86367. French III.2 (double course)

This course is intended for students reading French in their third year and willing to increase their degree of exposure to the language. The medium of tuition will be French. The objective is to enhance and extend the students' language skills by using a thematic approach and by offering a broad view on major trends in arts, literature, drama, music, etc. which shaped the French cultural scene over the twentieth century. Materials selected for their representativeness will be drawn from various periods but the emphasis will be on recent texts and other means of expression and communication such as cinema or advertising. Where appropriate, the discussion will also concentrate on locating some elements of comparison with Chinese culture as well as raising students' awareness on different approaches to written discourse between Chinese and French. The course will be taught throughout the year.

Coursework may include: (i) projects: these may range from research, to drama, to oral presentation, to translation, and can also include projects based on newspapers and other documentary investigation, as well as creative writing. They will normally be presented in the target language (French), but parts of the presentation might also be in English; (ii) periodic assignments; (iii) other coursework, as prescribed.

Examination: One three-hour written paper.

86362. German III.1 (double course)

This course is taught throughout the year and is a continuation of German II.1. It offers a balanced range of language skills, and furthers the exploration of the various linguistic aspects of the language. Special attention will be given to language registers and patterns, specific terminology and structures used in a variety of fields (literature, press, business, etc.) with the aim of further stimulating critical reading. As in German II.1 small tutorial groups will be arranged to ensure oral fluency and writing techniques as well as the development of oral skills in the context of argumented discourses and presentations.

Coursework may include the following: (i) periodic assignments; (ii) progress tests; and (iii) other coursework as prescribed, such as long essays, translations, directed reading, etc.

Examination: One three-hour written paper, an oral examination.

86364. German III.2

This course will only be offered during the first semester. It enhances and extends the language skills acquired during the first and second year through a systematic study in form of text analysis, discussion, translation, etc. of contemporary texts and documents of different styles such as newspaper and magazine articles etc. on current affairs and life in Germany.

Coursework may include: (i) projects: these may range from research, to drama, to oral presentation, to translation, and can also include projects based on newspapers and other documentary investigation, as well as creative writing. They will be presented in the target language (German), but parts of the oral presentation might also be in English; (ii) periodic assignments; (iii) other coursework, as prescribed.

Examination: One three-hour written paper.

86368. German III.3

This course will only be offered during the second semester and provide a study of the historical perspective of German life, culture and institutions based on course materials in German. This course also includes an introduction to literary texts from German speaking countries. Students are required to study in depth and present an approved topic of their choice.

Coursework may include: (i) projects: these may range from research, to drama, to oral presentation, to translation, and can also include projects based on newspapers and other documentary investigation, as well as creative writing. They will be presented in the target language (German), but parts of the oral presentation might also be in English; (ii) periodic assignments; (iii) other coursework, as prescribed. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

Examination: One three-hour written paper.

Linguistics

B0101 is normally a prerequisite for all second- and third-year courses. The examination and coursework weightings shall be in the ratio of 60:40 unless otherwise specified.

Second- or Third-year Courses

Intermediate Courses

B0201. Computational linguistics

The use of the computer in the study and analysis of language.

B0202. Contrastive grammar I: sound and writing

A comparative study of the sound and writing systems of Chinese and English.

B0203. Conversation analysis

An introduction to the study and analysis of natural conversation.

B0204. Language change

Studying how languages change over time, students will gain insight into the nature, mechanisms and results of linguistic change and will acquire the ability to do basic comparative reconstruction of languages and language families. Emphasis is placed on general principles of historical linguistics and on problem-solving.

B0205. Semantics: meaning and grammar

The study of semantics with special reference to the cognitive and structural aspects of meaning.

B0206. Phonetics: describing sounds

The focus will be on articulatory phonetics, with an introduction to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), the anatomy and physiology of the speech apparatus, phonetic features, the articulatory description of sounds, and practical transcription to reinforce the learning of the IPA.

B0207. Phonology I: systems of sounds

The notion of the phoneme and its place in phonology; distinctive features; phonological processes and their description; rules and representations.

B0208. Syntax I: describing grammatical patterns

A study of syntactic structure will reference to a variety of languages.

B0209. Words

In this course students will study the nature and structure of vocabulary from a practical point of view. Topics will include sounds, accent, spelling, and pronunciation; analysing words: foreign influences on vocabulary; coining new words; and vocabulary in a social context (slang, jargon, etc.).

B0210. Special topics in linguistics

Specialized courses offered by staff members.

Advanced Courses

Advanced courses require more in-depth study and presuppose a basic command of the content presented in the relevant intermediate courses. Prerequisites listed here ensure that students will have an appropriate background. Advanced courses are open to all second- and third-year students having met the course's prerequisites, but they are usually taken in the third year.

B0251. Contrastive grammar II: structures of Chinese and English

A comparative study of the grammar of Chinese and English.

Prerequisite: B0202 or B0208 .

B0252. Experimental phonetics

The theoretical and instrumental study of the acoustic properties of speech sounds; classsificatory criteria; speech analysis and synthesis; experimental techniques.

Prerequisite: B0206.

B0253. Historical linguistics

In-depth investigation of linguistic change; internal and grammatical reconstruction; critical review of the comparative method; problems of genetic affiliation; pidgins and creoles.

Prerequisite: B0204.

B0254. Language typology: the study of linguistic diversity

A survey of the structural diversity of the world's languages. Topics covered include: notions of language type; morphological, case marking, and word order typology; diachronic and areal typology; universals of language and their explanation.

Prerequisite: B0208.

B0255. Morphology: the structure within words

Word structure and formation, including various strategies employed to build words; current models of morphology, including lexical morphology, word and paradigm morphology, prosodic morphology, and other models.

Prerequisite: B0207 or B0218 .

B0256. Phonology II: theory and explanation

Current theories of phonology, including autosegmental phonology, metrical theory, lexical phonology, optimality theory and other models.

Prerequisite: B0207.

B0257. Syntax II: the theory of grammar

The course explores recent theoretical approaches to syntax, focusing on generative grammar.

Prerequisite: B0208.

B0258. Advanced study in linguistics

Specialised courses based on current research interests of staff members.

B0301. Thesis

Individual research on a topic chosen by the student in consultation with staff, in preparation for possible postgraduate work. For third year majors in linguistics only. Assessment: 100% coursework.

Mathematics

Candidates may select either 24118 or 24119 but not both.

Second- or Third-year Courses

24118. Mathematics for social sciences: course I.1

The Department of Mathematics does not allow candidates with a pass in Advanced Supplementary Level Mathematics and Statistics or Advanced Level Pure Mathematics to take this course. Such students are however eligible to take either 24119 or 24303.

The course is intended for students who wish to use mathematics as a tool and have done little mathematics since Form 5.

24119. Mathematics for social sciences: course I.2

The course introduces students to the basic techniques of mathematics. It is intended for students who wish to use mathematics as a tool.

24303. Mathematics for social sciences: course II

The course is specially designed for social sciences students. It will show how the methods of calculus and of linear mathematics may be applied in many fields of the social sciences.

It covers: the real number system; limits and continuous functions; infinite series; vector spaces; matrices; differentials and partial derivatives of functions of several variables; extremum problems; double integrals; Gamma and Beta functions; difference equations; differential equations.

Prerequisite: 24118, 24119 or a pass in Advanced Level Pure Mathematics, or its equivalent.

24534. Matrix theory and its applications

Matrix theory has a close connection with other mathematical subjects such as linear algebra, functional analysis, and combinatorics. It also plays an important role in the development of many subjects in science, engineering, and social science. In this course, students will be taught the fundamentals of matrix analysis and its applications to various kinds of practical problems. Mathematical software will be used in the course, so that students can learn how to use the computer to solve matrix problems.

Prerequisite: 24303 or 24115 .

24316. Elements of discrete mathematics

The object of this course is to provide students with the basic mathematical tools for solving concrete problems in various areas. Emphasis will be on the underlying mathematical structures of the problems to be solved.

24507. Differential equations

The standard topics in the wide field of differential equations included in this course are of importance to students of mathematics and physical sciences as well. Our emphasis is on principles rather than routine calculations and our approach is a compromise between diversity and depth.

Prerequisite: 24303 or 24115 .

24511. Development of mathematical ideas

Prerequisite: 24303 or 24115 .

24516. Numerical analysis

This course covers both the theoretical and practical aspects of Numerical analysis. Emphasis will be on basic principles and practical methods of solution using high speed computers.

Prerequisite: 24303 or 24115 and knowledge of a programming language.

24535. Introduction to optimization

This course introduces students to the theory and techniques of optimization, aiming at preparing them for further studies in operations research, mathematical economics and related subject areas.

Prerequisite: 24303 or 24115 .

Music

Second- or Third-year Courses

08211. Traditional music in contemporary China

This course surveys selected genres of traditional music that are currently practiced in China. These include qin and other musical instruments, theatrical genres such as kunqu, Peking opera and Cantonese opera, narrative songs such as Peking drumsong, Suzhou tanci, and Cantonese nanyin, folksongs, and music in Confucian, Buddhist, and Taoist rituals. The course aims not only to introduce students to traditional Chinese music, but also to explore the nature of Chinese culture through its musical practices. Some of the issues discussed will be couched within sets of dichotomies such as change/stability, politics/aesthetics, theoretical/practical, literati/masses, professional/amateur, ritual/entertainment, home-grown/foreign-influenced, and Han/Minority. This course may be taken by students with no previous training in music. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

08212. Music of contemporary Hong Kong

This course, which is open to all students, surveys various types of music found in Hong Kong today. Areas to be covered may include: Cantopop, musicals, media and film music, traditional Chinese music, Western concert music, experimental music and Muzak. This examination of musical diversity of Hong Kong aims to promote an understanding of the role of music in contemporary Hong Kong society. It also aims to prepare those who wish to work in the music industry, including broadcasting, advertising, recording and arts management. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

08244. Music in a commercial world

This course introduces students to topics in music administration and arts management, such as marketing, finance, contract agreements, and copyright problems in the fields of music publishing, recording and performance. A musical and/or creative writing background would be helpful, but is not necessary. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

08250. Popular music: from blues to Cantopop

Various types of popular music have flourished in the twentieth century in all parts of the world, each a special blend of local and imported Western musical values, techniques, and technologies. This course is an introduction to popular music categories from the United States, East Asia and Southeast Asia, and the Caribbean. Genres and styles, such as, blues, jazz, rock, rap, Cantopop, rock from China, Indonesian dangdut, reggae and New York salsa are examined as a variety of creative responses to colonialism, modernisation, and the expansion of global economic and cultural networks. Lectures are augmented with videos, film, slides, recordings, and music-making where possible. No previous musical experience necessary. Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

08251. Music in Western culture

This course for non-specialists cannot be taken by students majoring in music. The course will focus on a number of important works from the Western art repertory and will explain their musical structure and their relationship to the non-musical arts, society and politics. Assessment: 100% examination.

Philosophy

Students wishing to take second- and third-year courses except 07123 in philosophy are normally expected to have completed one of the four first-year courses ( 07108, 07102 or 07103 or 07104 ) satisfactorily.

Courses are given in the form of lectures, seminars and tutorials. Particular emphasis is laid upon tutorial work.

Most second- and third-year courses are open to both second- and third-year students, though in certain cases, prerequisites for taking a course may be notified.

In those courses where students are required, or may opt, to be examined by dissertation, assessment will be based on their dissertation, and also, in some cases, on tutorial work preparatory to the writing of their dissertation. The completed dissertation will count for at least 75% of the final assessment. In all other courses, assessment will be based on either coursework or a combination of coursework and formal written examination. In the latter case, the examination will be a two-hour paper taken at the end of the academic year in which the course is taken. The combination of marks will range from 75% examination/25% coursework to 50% examination/50% coursework (see also F. Thesis).

An oral assessment may also, in exceptional circumstances, be required.

Details will be given in the departmental booklet Choices in Philosophy.

A. Second-year Courses

There are two second-year courses, covering important aspects of the history of philosophy. They provide a useful basis for further work in the third year as well as being a good component of second -year work, especially for those students who are making philosophy a major part of their work.

It is recommended that these courses be taken in the second year. They are likely to be prerequisites for several other courses (as announced each year in the department booklet Choices in Philosophy). However, they may also be taken by third-year students.

07284. The beginnings of philosophy

The contents of this course may vary from year to year, but it is likely to include important early thinkers like Plato and Aristotle in the West, and Confucius and Lao Tze in China. Details will be announced in good time in the departmental booklet Choices in Philosophy .

07285. Early modern philosophy

The contents of this course may vary from year to year, but it is likely to cover various important thinkers from Descartes to Kant, including the Eighteenth Century Empiricists. Details will be announced in good time in the departmental booklet Choices in Philosophy .

Second- or Third-year Courses

B. Nuclear Courses

These courses are given regularly, and are intended to provide a good nucleus of philosophical work: they are aimed at making possible a basic understanding of some main areas of philosophy. All nuclear courses are given at least in alternate years, so that students will have the opportunity of taking any one of them in their second or third year. (Courses marked with an asterisk are normally given in odd years taking 1997?8 as an odd year, and the other courses are given in even years.)

07123. The elements of logic

The topics for this course include critical thinking and formal logic. We shall look at basic principles of reasoning, and see how they can be applied in philosophical and scientific discussions. In the rest of the course we shall study formal logic such as propositional and predicate logic. (This course is also open to first-year students.) Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% examination.

07263. Epistemology

Epistemology, or theory of knowledge, is the philosophical attempt to explain the basis of our knowledge (if any), and the limits of our knowledge (if any). Questions to be discussed will include: Does Scepticism make sense? Is there a foundation for knowledge? Are coherence theories convincing? What's wrong with Naturalized Epistemology? Are there varieties of justification (including input from the sociology of knowledge)? and What is the role of truth?

07264. Metaphysics^*

An investigation of some main topics, such as realism and nominalism, particular and universal, transcendental arguments, existence and non-existence, space and time.

07265. The mind

What is the nature of the mind and how is it related to the brain? Is the mind identical to the brain, or is it an immaterial substance? Or is the mind the software of the brain? In this course we will look at different theories of the mind, such as dualism, behaviourism, materialism and functionalism. We will also address more specific issues such as: what is thinking and do we always think with images or symbols? What is consciousness and can it be explained scientifically? We might also look at other philosophical issues in psychology and Artificial Intelligence.

07267. Theories of morality^*

An investigation of some main theories, such as those of Aristotle, Hume, Kant, Mill, G.E. Moore and Rawls.

07268. Topics in moral philosophy^*

An investigation of some main topics, such as the fact/value distinction, the meaning of 'good', ethical consistency, moral scepticism, moral weakness, morality and the emotions.

07269. Theories of society

The course reviews some important theories about the nature of society, including: anarchist and democratic accounts of political authority; the role of tradition; individualist and holist modes of social theory; historical materialism and other forms of historical explanation.

07270. Topics in social philosophy

An investigation of various topics such as the individual's relation to society; the nature of law; rights; freedom; justice and equality.

07295. Chinese philosophy: ethics^*

An introduction to comparative moral philosophy, with readings drawn largely from the Confucian tradition, as well as from Western sources.

07296. Chinese philosophy: metaphysics

A comparative study of Chinese and Western theories of reality, language, knowledge and man's place in nature.

07242. Philosophy of language^*

What is a language, and what is involved in knowing or understanding a language? In this course we will see how philosophers and linguists answer such questions as the following: What can logic tell us about the grammar of natural languages? Are human beings born with a universal grammar? What makes a word meaningful? What is the difference between what we mean and what we convey when we say something? How does a metaphor work? Can we learn something from slips of the tongue about the nature of language?

07248. Philosophy of logic

An investigation of some main notions, such as those of inference, validity, paradox and necessity.

C. Additional Courses

These courses cater for more specialized work according to the current interests of teachers and students. Certain additional courses may be examined by dissertation. Courses to be examined in this way will be so designated before they are given.

Group 1. Philosophical texts

Several of these courses, if offered, will probably assume work in one of the second-year courses listed above. Any such prerequisites will be notified in the departmental booklet Choices in Philosophy.

07289.  Confucius

07228.  Plato

07229.  Aristotle

07290.  Mencius

07291.  Zhuangzi

07230.  Descartes

07258.  Locke and Leibniz

07231.  Hume

07233.  Kant's critical philosophy

07293.  Marxist philosophy

07271.  Russell

07234.  Wittgenstein I

07235.  Wittgenstein II

07236.  Sartre and phenomenology

07238.  Carnap and Quine

07283.  Rorty and Neopragmatism

07294.  Mou Tsung San and modern Neo-Confucianism

Group 2. Philosophical topics

07245.  Philosophy of literature

07246.  Philosophy and psychoanalysis

07249.  Philosophy of mathematics

07251.  Philosophy of religion

07252.  Philosophy of the sciences

07253.  Philosophy of social science

07243.  Logic

07244.  Moral problems

07255.  Utilitarianism

07241.  Free will, responsibility and determinism

07239.  Aesthetics I

07256.  Aesthetics II

07254.  Symbolism

07280.  Philosophy and cognitive science

07282.  Philosophical Chinese

07286.  Pragmatism

07278.  Paradoxes

07287.  Philosophy of law

07272.  Special topic

Additional courses for 1997?8 will be chosen from the above list in the light of student and staff interests.

D. Reading Courses

'Additional courses' may be offered as reading courses if the number of students wishing to register for them is insufficient to justify putting on a normal lecture course, or if they are considered specially suitable for this approach. A reading course consists of supervised reading and written work. Courses which may be offered as reading courses will be identified in the departmental booklet Choices in Philosophy.

E.

07327. Seminar in political philosophy

This course is offered jointly by the Department of Philosophy, and the Department of Politics and Public Administration. Students wishing to take this course must satisfy prerequisites to be specified each year in the departmental booklet Choices in Philosophy . The course will be given at least every other year. Assessment: 100% coursework.

F. Thesis

07227. Thesis (double course)

A thesis may be prepared under supervision in the third year. The proposal to offer a thesis must be approved by the Head of Department by the end of the second week in the first term of the final year, and the completed thesis must be submitted not later than March 31 of the final year. Work on the thesis will be considered equivalent to two units. Assessment: 100% coursework.