Sexuality, Reproduction and the Family

Catalog description

In this course, we will explore how notions of the American family, sexuality, and reproduction have changed over time. We will shatter myths about the ideal American family and provide a more realistic picture that includes not just intact nuclear families, but a wide range of other arrangements including gay and lesbian families, single-parents, couples who remain childfree by choice, 'never-marrieds'. We will explore how various social movements (including the women's and gay liberation movements) have changed the face of the American family and how technology has created new possibilities for different family structures and lifestyles. We will also explore controversies over gay marriage, abortion and fertility technologies.