Rising social and economic inequality is an inescapable theme in today’s world. In this seminar we will look at at the nature and extent of particular dimensions of inequality, primarily in the contemporary United States, while also studying social theories that address inequality, the division of labor, and hierarchy. The topics we will examine include: wealth and income inequality, housing inequality, class formation, racialization and racism, gender inequity, environmental justice, and unequal access to education, health care, and justice. We will explore attempts to address equity and inequality, from past and present government and private-sector programs, to policy options and proposals, to current social movements confronting inequality.

Course Requirements:

This class is a seminar based on class participation and lively discussion. Requirements include: keeping up with readings (mainly short coursepack articles), writing a short weekly response to the readings, taking an active part in class discussions, one class presentation, and two three short papers.