WGS 260 Gender and Society

Fall

This course applies sociological principles to the study of gender. Students will examine gender as a social construct and an organizing principle of society. Gender is investigated at multiple levels- as a key factor in identity formation, interpersonal interaction, and large scale institutional organization. Historical patterns of gender inequality and gender progress will be addressed. Students will also examine the relationship between sex and gender, as well as the intersections of gender with race/ethnicity, class and sexuality. The significance of femininity and masculinity in the lives of girls and boys, women and men, and alternatively gendered societal members is addressed. This course is cross-listed as SOC 260. Prerequisite: SOC 100.

3 credit hours