Science and Politics of the Female Athlete

Catalog description

The purpose of this course is to explore gender differences in sport and politics that emerge from physiology, culture, history, politics, and policy. The engagement of women in sport has unique physiological considerations and ethical dilemmas as well as a rich history of defining moments and important ties to feminism and politics. In this course, students will learn how physiology differences affect female athletic performance and the effects of exercise on the female body, as well as how cultural, historical, and political forces shaped women's participation in sport. Students will also see how similar historical, cultural, and political forces affect women's involvement in politics. Combined, students will understand how similar forces shape gender norms and participation two different, yet related, aspects of society. Additionally, students will learn about the push for evidence-based policymaking and apply that knowledge to topics including doping, pregnancy, and gender verification. Students will integrate physiology and policy in a final assignment advocating for evidence-based sport policy. They will also educate their peers through a public education project.