WOST 30400 - Feminist Theories

Overview, in historical context, of feminist texts that analyze gender asymmetry in society; intersections of gender with other differences; and unequal distribution of power. In-depth study of key debates in Western feminism; selected readings by influential non-Western feminists. Required for Women’s Studies major.

Preparation for Course
P: WOST 21000 and ENGL 23301 (or equivalent), or consent of instructor.

Cr. 3.
Student Learning Outcomes
1.  Understand what theory is and develop approaches to reading theoretical writings critically.
2.  Apply various feminist theories to a range of questions/topics.
3.  Understand how feminist theories connect to larger feminist frameworks of theory and practice.
4.  Understand the depth and breadth of feminist theories and to consider the issues, problems, questions, and assumptions that have shaped them.
5.  Theorize issues from a feminist perspective.
6.  Articulate your own ideas, both verbally and in writing, about feminist issues.
7.  Develop advanced analytical skills by exploring complex and sometimes dense theoretical texts.
8.  Formulate significant critical questions about feminist theory.
9.  Conduct research and write about these questions effectively.
10.  Demonstrate strong communication skills through class discussions.