Identities, Boundaries & Mobilization

Catalog description

This course explores the political nature of identities, and particularly the way collective identities are shaped, maintained, and deployed. Taking an interdisciplinary approach, we will examine key dimensions of identity, modes and strategies of inclusion and exclusion, forms of "identity politics," and questions of intersectionality (the overlapping of identity categories, as for race and gender). Course materials will span everything from theoretical approaches to identity mobilization, to nationalism and secessionism, to the politics of gender and ethnicity, and will combine conceptual works, case studies, and literature. Assignments will include a series of short reaction papers, a collaborative final project, and class presentations. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior standing, or permission of instructor. Only one of T POS 248 and R POS 448Z may be taken for credit.