ERS 201 - Introduction to Ethnic and Racial Studies

4 credits
Introduces students to the interdisciplinary field of Ethnic & Racial Studies. Explores various ways race and ethnicity are created and re-created in society, and the way these “social constructions” perpetuate (and even challenge) social equality. Examines the myths and contradictions of race and racism, and what purposes these constructs serve in societies where hierarchies and inequalities exist. By analyzing the complex intersections of race and ethnicity within U.S. political and social structures, students gain a critical analysis of historic and contemporary racial inequality, and consider the effectiveness of the various solutions put forth by public policy, academics, and community activists.
Graded (A-F) only.