First-Year Writing Seminar (101-8-21)

Topic

How Elites Stay on Top

Instructors

Doron Raoul Shiffer-Sebba
Doron Shiffer-Sebba researches wealth inequality, the family, and using video methods for studying human interactions. He uses ethnographic, statistical, and computational methods.

Meeting Info

Kresge Centennial Hall 4-410: Tues, Thurs 3:30PM - 4:50PM

Overview of class

"How Elites Stay on Top"

Who is "elite"? And what do elites do to stay on top? In an era of extreme economic inequality and populist politics in the United States, many point to elites as a group to rally against, but few explain what it takes to be elite. This writing seminar will explore cutting-edge social science on how to define this group, relying on timely evidence and centuries-old theoretical debates. The course will also examine how individuals go about maintaining their elite status and passing it on to their children. Through consecutive writing exercises, students will not only refine their understanding of contemporary elites in the United States, but also learn the central tenants of academic writing in the social sciences.

Learning Objectives

Learn how elites are defined and how elites preserve their resources; develop social science writing proficiency.

Teaching Method

Seminar

Evaluation Method

Writing assignments

Class Materials (Required)

All materials for this course will be made available on Canvas - no purchase necessary.

Class Attributes

WCAS Writing Seminar