2012-2013 Academic Catalog

May 16, 2024

2012-2013 Academic Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

WS 200 - Feminist Theory

The course provides students with a survey of feminist theories, in national and international context, and traces development of distinct strands of feminist ideas in the academy, popular culture, social movements, and political arenas. While the readings include some historical background, the focus is on late-20th century and contemporary schools of thought. The class combines lectures, discussions and seminar-style student presentations on the intersection of gender with race, class, sexuality, age and other dimensions of social identity, and the pathways toward social change and full equality. Throughout the class, students consider the commonalities and contrast in gender relations across cultures and the tensions between several major feminist schools of thought. The review of multiple theories prepares students to read, think and write critically in upper-level classes based in specific approaches within this broader spectrum.