According to ideals of American exceptionalism, we live in a classless society. But according to mounting evidence, twenty-first-century America is a class-bound society with historic, widening gulfs—economic, social, educational, & cultural—between upper & lower strata. What does a class look like in America, and beyond? How, where, and by whom is it created & perpetuated, and how does is it play out? Through readings, media, & discussion, this seminar examines class on the ground, in various sites & contexts: media & popular culture; preschool, high school, & university education; the workplace; food, bodies, & health; politics; friendship & sexuality; family & childrearing; rural & urban spaces; the environment. Throughout our discussions & written work we will consider the roles of gender, race, ethnicity, & history. Seminar participants will extend the range of class topics through final Powerpoint presentations.

Course Requirements:

Seminar participation, including attendance; reading-unit report; final presentation.

Intended Audience:

Students interested in the topic. Students pursuing a minor in Social Class and Inequality Studies must take either this class or Soc 242.

Class Format: