Understanding prejudice and discrimination
M Stevenson
8 points * 3 hours per week * First semester * Clayton
If we examine arguments and conduct which support, justify and enact prejudice and discrimination, then what we find underlying them are theories about human nature. These theories of human nature which are connected to the diverse forms of prejudice and discrimination are always embedded within particular cultural, social, legal, political, economic and historical contexts. The subject therefore aims to (i) adopt a crosscultural comparative and historical approach to explaining the dynamics of prejudice and discrimination; and (ii) introduce students to the range of current arguments to demonstrate how scholars are striving to understand the contemporary dynamics of prejudice and discrimination.
Assessment
One essay (1500 words): 25% * One essay (2500 words): 45% * Examination (2 hours): 30%
Recommended texts
Barker M The new racism Junction Books, 1981
CCCS (ed.) The empire strikes back Hutchinson, 1982
Cohen P and Rattansi A Rethinking racism and antiracism Runnymede Trust, 1991
Davis A Women, race and class Women's Press, 1981
Dijk T A van Elite discourse and racism Sage, 1993
Donald J and Rattansi A `Race', culture and difference Open University, 1992
Essed P J M Understanding everyday racism Sage, 1991
Marable M The crisis of colour and democracy: Essays on race, class and power Common Courage Press, 1992