WMN2150 - Rethinking Global Culture: Sex, Race, Consumption

Leader: Maryanne Dever

Offered

Malaysia Second semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit introduces the complex relationships between sex, race, and contemporary western consumer practices. Using theoretical perspectives from such critics as Anne McClintock, Stuart Hall, and bell hooks, the unit considers the politics of sex and race within the lived experiences of imperialism and globalisation. Designed to be interdisciplinary, the unit incorporates historical, political, literary and filmic perspectives. Areas for examination include advertising, media, travel and tourism, fashion, foreign aid and child sponsorship programs, 'world literature', and transnational labour movements.

Objectives

Students successfully completing this unit will have gained

1. a foundational understanding of feminist debates in the area of postcolonialism, cross-cultural consumption and sexed and raced identities;
2. an understanding of the historical links between imperialism and globalization;
3. skills in the critical analysis of popular discourses, such as advertising, news production and other media and popular cultural forms;
4. enhanced skills in verbal and written communication;
5. enhanced skills in the formulating, conducting and presenting of individual research projects.

Assessment

Class test (1.5hr /equiv. 1500wds)30%;Research project (2700 wds)60%; Class participation (equivalent to 300 words)10%

Additional comment Students at level 2 have an exam component.

Contact hours

2 hours (1 x 2 hour seminar) per week

Prohibitions

WMN3150