|
|
Course Description
What does it mean to be oppressed, and what forces coalesce to create, reinforce, and maintain oppression? Do all experiences of oppression look the same? How can an oppressed individual break free from societal shackles? How should those in the privileged class respond to these injustices?
In this course, we will explore philosophical conceptions of oppression, taking into account its manifestations in both explicit and implicit policies, practices, and behaviors. Specifically, we will look at discrimination against persons based on race, sex, gender, sexual orientation, disability, and mental illness. We will look at historical and contemporary discussions about the types of obstacles facing these groups. Additionally, we will study different models of personal responsibility and consider to what extent it makes sense to hold a perpetrator or bystander responsible for oppressive conditions. Readings for the course will include contemporary philosophical texts as well as commentaries written by activists.
In this course, we will explore philosophical conceptions of oppression, taking into account its manifestations in both explicit and implicit policies, practices, and behaviors. Specifically, we will look at discrimination against persons based on race, sex, gender, sexual orientation, disability, and mental illness. We will look at historical and contemporary discussions about the types of obstacles facing these groups. Additionally, we will study different models of personal responsibility and consider to what extent it makes sense to hold a perpetrator or bystander responsible for oppressive conditions. Readings for the course will include contemporary philosophical texts as well as commentaries written by activists.
