Feminist Theory

3 units

This course begins by examining the 19th and early 20th century historical context out of which contemporary feminist theory emerged. We then turn to the 1960's and the emergence of the Second Wave of Feminism. We focus on some of the major theories that developed during the 1960's, 1970's and 1980's and the conflicts and internal problems these theories generated. We then examine some of the ways these problems were resolved in feminist theory of the 1990's. The last part of the course focuses on topics of concern to contemporary feminists -- such as the family, sexuality and globalism -- and the contributions feminist theory brings to these topics. Open to graduate students by enrolling in L77 WS 500; contact the Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies office for details.