Discourse, Power and Politics

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

In this course students are introduced to critical theories which examine the sociological, psychological, and cultural aspects of human interaction. Students develop the capacity to critically explore social norms and assumptions and to examine their construction and legitimacy. This process enables them to identify the underlying power dimensions and the implications of these for a just society. Classic and contemporary social psychological theories, concepts, and experiments are examined and provide the stimulus for critical debate and analysis. In particular, the manner in which discourse influences identity construction, subject positioning, and social systems is identified and analysed. Students emerge with a deeper understanding of their own values and beliefs with the potential to become an engaged social critic.