Critical Social Inquiry 0161 - Africa

The images of Africa most commonly seen in the US flood our minds with inconsistent messages. Africa is portrayed and discussed as a locus of ancient tribal conflicts, disease, famine, and suffering. While struggles do occur just as they do in all places, understanding the diverse experiences of the peoples of Africa requires engagement with the cultures, politics, religions, and perspectives of African people. This course is intended to introduce students to the basic concepts, issues, methods and arguments in the study of Africa. To understand the peculiarities of African politics along with the possibilities and constraints Africans face in the ever changing world affairs, students will learn not only about formal politics and institutional frameworks but also about more informal, seemingly less visible modes of action, interaction and resistance.

Power, Community and Social Justice Multiple Cultural Perspectives Writing and Research Students are expected to spend at least six to eight hours a week of preparation and work outside of class time.