ETHS 391 DG - Theories of Race and (Anti)Racism

Minimum Credit(s) Awarded: 4
Maximum Credit(s) Awarded: 4

How has the concept of race been theorized in social sciences as well as humanities? What are the changing terms of debates over the nature of race and racism in contemporary societies? How have scholars explored the origins of race and racism? In what ways did racial, class, and gender hierarchies sustain colonialist ideologies and institutions? How do Black, Indigenous, Latinx, and Asian American feminist scholars negotiate the theoretical and sociopolitical tensions between race and gender and interrogate Western colonialist and White feminist conceptualizations and methodologies in social science research? Why is the analysis of Whiteness and White supremacy an integral part of antiracism? In what ways is our study relevant to the current moment of America’s reckoning with racial justice?

This course offers an advanced study of the emergence and development of the theories of race and racism in their historical and sociopolitical contexts. By investigating some of the most influential scholarship and research from an array of disciplinary and conceptual perspectives, such as sociological theories of race and racism, postcolonial studies, Black feminism, and cultural studies, we will develop the critical frameworks for understanding race and racism as historical and contemporary issues in the United States and other parts of the globe. The course also introduces ethnic studies research agendas and strategies for effective antiracism and social change.

Offered Fall Odd Years, Other

Prerequisite(s): Sophomore standing and higher.