Advanced Topics in Social and Cultural Analysis (303-0-1)

Topic

Asian American Politics and Representation

Instructors

Helen H Cho

Meeting Info

Kresge Centennial Hall 2-325: Tues, Thurs 5:00PM - 6:20PM

Overview of class

Asian Americans have long been stereotyped as apolitical and as the ‘forever foreigner,' unable to navigate the U.S. political system. This course examines the socially constructed nature of ‘Asian American' as a political label. How have politicians navigated this identity — in relation to public opinion, voting behavior, stereotypes, partisan discourse, and self-presentation? What about activism and resistance outside of the dominant political structure? Throughout the course, we will trace the political lives of Asian Americans who have chosen differing paths in relation to the existing U.S. political structure.

Learning Objectives

• Examine the use of ‘Asian American' as a political label
• Critically consider historical and contemporary ways Asian Americans engage with the existing U.S.
political structure
• Reflect on our own political engagement and praxis
• Expand our definition of political engagement

Class Materials (Required)

All course materials will be available on Canvas.

Class Notes

Attendance at first class is mandatory.
Students will be required to attend an event outside of class time.

Class Attributes

Social & Behavioral Sciences Distro Area