PHIL 364 Feminism and Philosophy
How have feminist thinkers approached traditional questions about the nature of reality, personal identity and social institutions, and how do their answers influence their choices about how to act? By what standards can these choices be evaluated? Does it make sense to talk about feminism as a single school of thought? What is the relationship of feminist theory and philosophy to other women's movements? In this course students have the opportunity to connect discussions of feminist thought to personal and community issues. Topics may include sexism in traditional theory and philosophy; concepts of oppression; how sexism, racism, homophobia and class affect women's lives and thought; the evaluation of various feminist theories; and how intellectual and political connections between women are created and maintained.
4 Undergraduate credits
Effective May 8, 2019 to present
Meets graduation requirements for
Learning outcomes
General
- Analyze philosophical work in feminism, especially work produced by women of color and non-binary persons of color.
- Apply feminist philosophies to develop complex understandings of racial identity, gender identity, masculinity, class, ableism, and racism.
- Understand the historic and continuing effects of colonialism and patriarchy on ways of thinking and knowing in the world.
- Understand the historical exclusion of persons of color from feminist movements and feminist philosophy.
- Understand the importance of, and contributions of persons of color, to feminist philosophies.
- Use the work of the course to reflect on personal beliefs and attitudes about questions of sexism, racism, classism, and ableism.
- Develop communication skills necessary for displaying and acting on those beliefs and attitudes that facilitate living and working effectively and morally in a diverse society.