Intersectionality, Measurement and Public Policy (340-0-20)

Instructors

Tabitha Bonilla

Meeting Info

Annenberg Hall G02: Tues 9:00AM - 11:50AM

Overview of class

As understanding of identity and bias increased, Kimberlé Crenshaw developed the theory of intersectionality which challenges us to consider various components of identities as having the potential to create overlapping and intersecting experiences. When an individual holds multiple identities that have traditionally been marginalized, any discrimination experienced will be different than someone without that unique blend of identities. To use Crenshaw's initial example in 1989, Black women experience the intersection of both racism and sexism that meant their discrimination differed from the racism experienced by Black men and the sexism experienced by White women. Thirty years later, researchers still are coming to terms with what this means in the public sphere, but also in research which underlines the importance of thinking about identity more comprehensively and completely. In this class, we will begin by addressing the question of what intersectionality is. We will also consider how considering identity as intersectional alters our understanding of policy, and what policy should address. Importantly, we will consider how to incorporate intersectionality into a basic framework of research and analysis through a term-long project.

This class is a seminar, meaning that there is no point where I will lecture you using slides, white or jam boards, or any other meeting. A seminar means that you are expected to devote approximately 2 hours each week to learning information to discuss in our time together, and be able to ask questions about the content, thoughtfully discuss the material, and engage with me and classmates throughout the time. Some of the material will be articles and book chapters to read, but other material will include videos of talks or lectures, podcasts, and interviews.

Given that this is an unusual year, with an unusual classroom and learning structure, please pay particular attention to the syllabus and to the Canvas course cite. Please read it thoroughly and refer to it throughout the term. Students will be required to participate in asynchronous learning modules and expected to participate in weekly online discussions. Class communications will occur through Slack.

Learning Objectives

There are several objectives in this course, but each goal is intended to enhance your understanding of identity, social structures and engagement with policy.

Understand the definition of intersectionality and the theoretical origins and underpinnings.
Identify why and how an intersectional approach changes our perspectives of politics and policy.
Increase your process of reading, critiquing, and investigating social science concepts.
Practice engaging why and how different approaches to social scientific investigation are meaningful to how we analyze and investigate politics and policy.

Class Attributes

No Freshmen

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Pre-Registration -- Reserved for SESP Students until the end of preregistration, after which time enrollment will be open to everyone who has taken the prerequisites, if applicable. ANTI_REQ: Students who have taken or are currently enrolled in SOC_POL 351 may not enroll.