Course Description
The relationships of racial and ethnic groups with each other and with social institutions and processes.
Athena Title
Sociology Race and Ethnicity
Semester Course Offered
Offered every year.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
The goal of this course is to (1) introduce you to how sociologists have sought to understand and explain relations between racial and ethnic groups, and (2) to introduce you to the history, cultures and issues faced by some of these groups. This course should increase your capacity to appreciate their social contributions and understand the sources of social conflict. In this course of study we review theory, sharpen your analytical skills through assessment of the methology and structure of scholarly works used, acquire empirical information, and provide time for interaction and personal perspective development. I am concerned that students achieve a theoretical understanding which is only possible if they have already acquired a base quantity of information allowing for generalization. They should be capable of assimilating additional information as needed. Given sound theory development, they must develop the skills to add to our body of knowledge. Finally, discussion is involved throughout, but while empirical experience may engender passions and set research agendas, it is no longer the primary tool for understanding.
Topical Outline
1. Theory of Race and Ethnic Relations 2. Race and Ethnicity in History 3. Gender, History, and Race/Ethnicity 4. Origins of Modern Race and Ethnic Relations 5. Settler-Colonialism 6. Capitalism and Race/Ethnic Relations 7. Assimilation and Migration 8. Labor Markets 9. Immigration and Economics 10. Racial Formation 11. Assimilation and Panethnicity 12. Race and Culture 13. Islam, Religion, and Ethnic Strife 14. Postmodernism and "Little Urban Tribes"
Syllabus
Public CV