Spring 2010

SOC 395G • Sociology of Gender

Course Description

Men and women are treated differently--by social discourse, in interactions, and by institutions--in ways that typically benefit men and discriminate against women. This course examines the social construction of gender inequality, paying special attention to how divisions by race, class, and sexuality contribute to (and occasionally undercut) men's power and privilege over women. We will also focus on moments of resistance and change in gender arrangements.

We begin by examining the major theories in the sociology of gender, including dramaturgical and postmodernist theory; black feminist theory; psychoanalytic theory; and hegemonic masculinity. Next we examine how these theories have been used to understand economic inequality between men and women. The third part of the course examines recent research and current debates in gender and sexuality.

This course will cover many of the readings required for the comprehensive examination in gender. The course is intended for graduate students in sociology. Students from other departments must apply for permission to take the course.

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