Seminar in Critical Race Theory (467-0-20)
Instructors
Corey Lorenzo Barnes
Meeting Info
Kresge 3438 Philosophy Sem. Rm: Thurs 5:00PM - 7:50PM
Overview of class
Critical Race Theory is a theory that investigates the relationship between race, racism, and power, particularly as it relates to law. It considers many of the themes considered by traditional civil rights discourse. However, Richard Delgado tells us that: "Unlike traditional civil rights discourse, which stresses incrementalism and step-by-step progress, critical race theory questions the very foundations of the liberal order, including equality theory, legal reasoning, Enlightenment rationalism, and neutral principles of constitutional law." This graduate seminar will explore the foundations and central tenets of Critical Race Theory, from its origins in Critical Legal Studies, to current applications and debates with particular attention to Critical Race Theory's intersections with the field of Philosophy. We will apply philosophical lenses to this legal theory's understanding of itself, law, and our world.
Learning Objectives
Identify and define issues and problems of concern with and within Critical Race Theory, analyzing them critically and systematically by asking relevant questions, examining different sides of issues, evaluating arguments, and using the language and techniques of formal logic to articulate and assess argumentation where appropriate. Construct clear, rigorous arguments from a well-formulated thesis. Describe struggles such as racism, sexism, and classism from within a Critical Race Theorist's lens.
Class Materials (Required)
Class materials must be purchased.
Kimberlee Crenshaw, et. al, Critical Race Theory: The Key Writings That Formed the Movement, ISBN: 978-1-56584-271-7
Class Materials (Suggested)
Janet Dewart Bell and Vincent M. Southerland, Carving Out a Humanity: Race, Rights, and Redemption, ISBN: 978-1-62097-620-3
Class Notes
Other readings will be provided on CANVAS at no cost to students.
Enrollment Requirements
Enrollment Requirements: Registration is reserved for Philosophy PhD Graduate Students