This course examines the relationship between race, caste, and religion in two different democracies, India and the United States. To do this, in the first part of the course, we shall compare the historical struggles of two geographically disparate populations in India and the United States. Through this comparison we probe the language and construction of race, nation, religion, color, and ethnicity, as well as the linkages between these categories. The juxtaposition of these very different locations and histories, each with its own public and private narratives of struggle, will allow us to analyze and discuss issues at the heart of public policy agenda, such as asylum, immigration, hate crimes and citizenship. The second part of the course will look at more recent forms of racial and religious profiling related to the effects of the post 9/11 War on Terror in both India and the United States. In this way the course will introduce students to systematic patterns of intolerance and chauvinism in Europe, India and the US – hence covering both Asia and the West.

Course Requirements:

The course will be assessed by means of (i) regular writing assignments, (ii) group projects; (iii) two quizzes, and (iv) a final paper. Response papers (due before each class): 35% Final Essay (4 pages minimum): 15% Group Projects (10 minutes): 25% Quizzes (mid-term and end of term): 25%.

Intended Audience:

The course will appeal to students in South Asian studies, American Culture, History, Sociology, International Studies, and Religious studies.

Class Format:

Two 90-minute meetings weekly, consisting of equal parts lecture and discussion.