Faculty First Year Seminars 197EDUC3 - What is Race?

Race. Some people see it as a taboo topic. Others see it as essential. Some see it as irrelevant to their lives. Others see it as fundamental to their very identities and selves. But just what is this thing we have come to call "race"? Is it real? Where did it come from? Has it always been with us? In this seminar, we will discover what anthropologists, sociologists, and historians have learned about the concept of race in human societies, past and present. We will learn about the power of race to shape our lives, identities, and opportunities. By reflecting on the social science research about race, we will explore both harmful and productive ways to talk about race and fight against racism in our current lives.

Freshmen Only