Sociology of Gender Inequalities

Objectif

Course Description

The course explores contending theoretical frameworks for understanding and explaining gender and sexualities from a sociological perspective. We will draw on current and foundational scholarship to demonstrate how sociological theories and concepts improve our understanding of contemporary gender relations. We will challenge our preconceived ideas about gender and discuss how the social construction of gender shapes and constraints individuals’ identities and opportunities within and across societies. We will think critically of how gender inflects other parts of our identities such as race, class, sexuality, ethnicity, and nationalities. Building on recent literature, we will take a gender lens to consider how everyday practices and institutions such as romantic relationships, the family, and labor markets contribute to or hold back progress toward gender equality.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the course, you will:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of theoretical perspectives and key concepts relevant to contemporary research on gender and sexualities.
2. Critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of current research as reflected in the course material.
3. Demonstrate the ability to synthesize, critique, and extend current literature through class discussions, presentations, and individual written work.
4. Apply theoretical and empirical knowledge from the course material to advance your own research ideas.

Plan

• WEEK 1: Gender as Social Structure
• WEEK 2: Gender Processes at the Individual Level
• WEEK 3: Gender Processes at the Interactional Level
• WEEK 4: Gender Processes at the Macro Level
• WEEK 5: Dating, Romantic Relationships, and Sexual Pleasure
• WEEK 6: Carework and Housework
• WEEK 7: Education and Labor Markets
• WEEK 8: Queering Sociology