Fall 2006

WGS 345 • 12-Family Policy Issues-W

Course Description

Consideration of liberal, conservative, and centrist views concerning the major family policy issues facing the United States and other advanced industrial societies. This is a substantial writing component course for juniors and seniors who already have some background in family social science. It focuses on current policy-related debates concerning the state of families in modern societies. More specifically, it is organized around key issues of disagreement among major ideological factions, including conservatives, communitarians, liberals, and libertarians. Students will read materials written from various perspectives and will be encouraged to formulate a personal perspective or position on the issues discussed.

Grading Policy

55%: 15-30 pg paper dealing with a major policy related family issue 15%: Exam 1 15%: Exam 2 15%: Exam 3 Up to 2 points may be added to the final class average for outstanding class participation.

Texts

David Popenoe and others, Promises to Keep. Sephanie Coontz, The Way We Really Are. Nijole Benokraitis, Feuds About Families William Bennett, The Broken Hearth.

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