SOC 155B: Protest, Politics, and Change: Social MovementsInstructor: Snehalatha Gantla Prerequisites: None Course Description: Social movements shape every facet of social life. In this course, we use sociological texts to help us analyze the workings of social movements, alongside writings produced within social movements. We center intersectional perspectives on social movements, and the writings of scholars and activists who are Black, indigenous, or other people of color. We begin by developing a core set of sociological questions around the how of social movements. How does the political and institutional context of movements shape their success? What strategies do movements use—how are they organized, and what are the benefits and pitfalls of different strategies and organizational forms? And how do activists come to think of themselves as activists? After reading key sociological texts on these questions, we move into studying the history and social dynamics of specific social movements, using a mix of primary sources and academic scholarship. We pay close attention to the connections, synergies, and overlaps between movements, and the intersection and co-constitution of dynamics such as class, race, gender, and sexuality. While we focus our attention on the United States, we situate our study within the groundswell of social movement activism around the world and consider how activists build and navigate transnational coalitions. In addition to engaging with a variety of movements, you will have the opportunity to describe and facilitate a short discussion session on a movement of your choice. At the end of the session, you will use your course learnings to assemble a personalized activist “toolkit” composed of readings, videos, podcasts, music, art, or other content. Session: Session II Day: M, T, Th Time: 11:10am - 1:40pm Credit Hours: 4 Credits Course Format: On-Campus Course for Summer 2024 Brandeis Graduation Requirement Fulfilled: DEIS-US, SS Enrollment Limit: Course Classification: Undergraduate Level Course Course Tuition: $3,700 Course Fees: None Open to High School Students: Yes |
