WGST 226 Feminist Theory [GEGA or GEKH]

A consideration of philosophical issues concerning the nature and status of women. Readings from both traditional and contemporary sources. Topics may include scientific and religious views, the ideal society and women’s place in it, varieties of feminism, views on sexuality, family and reproduction, and work and the economy.

Often cross-listed with PHIL 226

Credit 3 hrs May not be repeated for additional credit
Grade Mode Normal (A-F) Course Rotation

Prerequisites -
Restriction by Major -
Restriction by Class - Undergraduate standing

Rationale for Perspectives on a Diverse World - Gender is one of the principal characteristics determining the identity and life experience for human beings. This course takes a philosophical approach to gender, examining beliefs about women and men from a wide variety of cultural and political perspectives. We consider both traditional justifications of the differential treatment of women and men in such institutions as marriage and family, as well as theories that challenge these traditional views. PHIL 226 Feminist Theory fulfills the Global Awareness requirement of the General Education program because it considers a wide range of practices and beliefs about gender from across the globe, with an emphasis on the intellectual and ethical complexities of understanding and judging gendered practices in cultures other than our own.

Rationale for Knowledge of the Disciplines - Gender is one of the principal characteristics determining the identity and life experience for human beings. This course takes a philosophical approach to gender, examining beliefs about women and men from a wide variety of cultural and political perspectives. We consider both traditional justifications of the differential treatment of women and men in such institutions as marriage and family, as well as theories that challenge theses traditional views. This course is a general education course in the knowledge of the disciplines because it provides an introduction to the discipline of philosophy through the concept of gender, its methodology, and its contribution to the body of human knowledge. Students will acquire skills of critical reasoning and develop skills for evaluating and creating substantive arguments to support philosophical positions. Developing such skills is central to the process of higher-education. Moreover, such skills will serve students throughout their educations across all disciplines, in their careers or in pursuing graduate or professional degrees and in exercising their civic duties.

Equivalent Course(s) - PHIL 226
Course History -

philosophy, gender, Global Awareness (GEGA), Knowledge of the Disciplines - Humanities (GEKH)

Summer 2024 Course Sections

Fall 2024 Course Sections