Intro to Women's Studies Spring 2012  

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An interdisciplinary approach to the study of women's social identity and placement throughout history and the world. Theoretical perspectives and research from sociology, psychology, biology, and anthropology are used to understand how gender shapes our lives on individual, cultural, and societal levels. Areas of study emphasize the role of gender in social institutions including family, workplace, education, religion, media, and politics.

1. Explain theoretical beliefs about gender especially in regard to women and femininity from the perspectives of different disciplines including sociology, psychology, biology, and anthropology.

2. Describe how women's identities, roles, and social placement have evolved throughout Western history and how they compare with other cultures around the world.

3. Understand the influence of social, cultural, and economic forces in shaping diverse attitudes, beliefs, and choices about women's roles in relationships, marriage, and family life.

4. Describe differing views about women's participation in the structure of various social institutions including the workplace, education, religion, legal arenas, and politics.

5. Understand the influence of media on perceptions about women and femininity and men and masculinity in American culture.

6. Complete and present a written analysis that addresses an issue pertinent to women's studies.