Queer Studies

Catalog description

This course examines contemporary LGBTQ++ life through a sociological lens. Gender and sexuality are deeply personal facets of our lives, and also profoundly related to our experiences, social position, and outcomes in society, functioning both as a source of stratification and a source of community. Drawing on both theoretical and empirical works, we will discuss definitional and language issues (for example, who and what is queer?) and patterns in American society related to LGBTQ++ people, including health outcomes, socioeconomic outcomes, family formation, and educational experiences. Readings will draw primarily from sociological studies but will include some interdisciplinary work. This course is open to all students; the course takes as given the worth of identity locations across gender and sexuality spectrums.