AMST 111 Power and Identity

This course revolves around the theme of power. This course considers how oppressive structures establish and sustain themselves -- and face opposition -- at local national and international levels. We will begin by addressing the question how does opposition imply alternative forms of power visions of freedom self-identification and belonging? Using historical literary theoretical and social perspectives we will focus on the tensions between power's oppressive and liberatory tendencies. For example we will examine famous African American intellectual W.E.B. Du Bois's sole published biography John Brown; test historical case studies through academic inquiries into British and Japanese imperialism; and take an intersectional approach to understanding identity power and domination. Throughout students will build and develop their critical and interpretative skills through reading writing debate and presentation. This course is taught by Professor Jaclyn Rodriguez (Psychology) Professor James Ford (English) and Professor Paul Nam (History).