The first block of this course introduces students to Feminist & Gender Studies (FGS), the multi-, inter-, and transdisciplinary study of feminism and gender from an intersectional perspective. Examines feminist and gender studies theories and critical practices manifested within and outside of the academy, which include interrogations of power, inequality, and privilege along the lines of sexuality, race, ethnicity, class, age, and other social, cultural, and political markers.

This course is designed to introduce students to Feminist & Gender Studies (FGS)--the academic study of gender and sexuality from a feminist, interdisciplinary, and intersectional perspective. The premise of FGS is that historically, as well as in contemporary societies, gender, like race and class, has been a fundamental source of societal stratification. It also recognizes that other forms of inequality have been or are based on age, race, ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation. Around the world, customs and laws perpetuate gender bias, discrimination, and inequality, while violence against women and children, in both domestic and public spaces, remains a major human rights problem. Hence, this course will also entail an interdisciplinary and intersectional critique and historical examination of the origins of patriarchy in U.S. culture and abroad. Intro to FGS is required for all FGS majors and minors.