SOC 343 - Gender and the Body

4 credits
Explores how bodies are gendered in social contexts with an emphasis on U.S. and Western culture. Examines gendered bodies and their link between the self, personal identity, and society, how bodies serve as means of social control, as well as sites of transformation and resistance, and how we utilize bodies to understand and create “difference.” Considers the implications for various social groups of the increasing focus on the body in American society. Explores topics that may include the racialization of gender and sexuality, body image and the impact of popular culture, reproductive practices, the social construction and production of femininity and masculinity, food, eating, and fat politics, (dis)ability, sports, “deviant” bodies, transgendered bodies, and intersexuality. May be applied to the Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies minor. Approved for University Studies (Integration - Strand J). Prerequisite(s): SOC 204 or GSWS 201 and completion of all lower division University Studies requirements (Cross-listed with GSWS 343)