Race and Public Policy

Semester:

Fall

Race and Racism in the Making of the United States as a Global Power

This course explores the social, historical, and legal construction of race and ethnic identity in the United States by considering how the concept of race has been systematically institutionalized in both the public and private spheres of American society. By emphasizing the value of a global analysis and focusing on cross-national comparisons and...

African Politics

Semester:

Fall

African Politics in Perspective: Groups, Governance, and Growth

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to wide-ranging issues that shape contemporary politics in Africa. To understand the complexity of cultures and dynamic social structures, the nature and development of political systems on the continent, Africa's place in the geopolitical arena, and the economic prospects for individual nations and the continent as a whole, we critically explore issues related to group identity and social cohesion, examine pre...

Transitional Justice

Semester:

Fall

Transitional Justice and the Politics of Truth Commissions

Scholars, policymakers, and political leaders have long debated appropriate responses to severe human rights violations that occur during periods of civil conflict, war, and genocide. This course introduces students to interdisciplinary studies in transitional justice and post-conflict reconciliation by focusing on the work of truth and reconciliation commissions. Students will examine key concepts and theoretical perspectives that are central to the field of...

Race, Film, and American Politics

Semester:

Spring

Visions and Voices: Race, Film, and American Politics

Race, Film, and American Politics is a course that examines the multifaceted ways in which racial and ethnic identity has been represented in American film. Drawing on political science, sociology, anthropology, and film and media studies, we will assess the ways in which the mainstream media in the United States — focusing primarily on the Hollywood film industry — has portrayed different population...

Global Ethnic Politics

Semester:

Spring

Dominance and Difference: Ethnic Politics in Comparative Perspective

Global Ethnic Politics (or Dominance and Difference: Ethnic Politics in Comparative Perspective) focuses on the social and political implications of ethnic identities in different parts of the world. The course provides a comparative, global analysis of race and ethnicity, and is designed to help students understand the history, dynamics, and salience of ethnic inequality and political...