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.