CLST 2315 Introduction to Cultural Studies

Students examine the principles, concepts and theories central to Cultural Studies. We examine such topics as how cultures make meaning through representational systems, challenges to hierarchies of cultural value, theoretical foundations of Cultural Studies, and social movements (feminism, critical race studies, post-colonialism, gender studies, etc.) that have helped create the theoretical body of work central to Cultural Studies. This course also examines contemporary concerns within the field such as the effects of globalization, techno-cultural studies, and more. This course requires significant critical thinking skills and demands that students apply theories and concepts to specific case studies, cultural artifacts, and texts. Thus, this course is not recommended for first-year students.