SOC 266 - Race and Ethnicity at Lord Fairfax Community College
Course Description
Effective: 2012-01-01
Considers race and ethnicity as social constructs that deeply affect our personal experience and our social institutions. Examines the relationships of racial and ethnic groups with each other and with the larger society, and the ways in which these relationships are constantly changing. Explores the experience of different groups and examines ideas of racial justice and equality. Introduces significant theoretical approaches to the study of race and ethnicity.
(3 Cr.) Lecture 3 hours, Total 3 hours per week
3 credits
General Course Purpose
This course provides: Understanding of the role of race and ethnicity in shaping social institutions, social policy, and everyday social interactions.A sociological understanding of race, ethnicity, and social inequality. An enhanced understanding of the experience of members of other groupings.
Course Prerequisites/Corequisites
Ability to read in English at the college level.
Course Objectives
- Address race and ethnicity from a sociological perspective.
- Describe the social, demographic and cultural characteristics of a variety of racial and ethnic groups.
- Apply major theoretical concepts to the experience of different groupings.
- Compare the experience of different racial and ethnic groups.
- Analyze the likely impact of changes in social institutions and policies upon different groups.
Major Topics to be Included
- Theories of race
- Social construction of race and ethnicity
- Immigration patterns, experience, responses
- Patterns of racial and ethnic competition, conflict, accommodation, and cooperation
- Prejudice, discrimination, stereotyping
- The experience of ethnic and racial groupings in this country, including such groups as African Americans, Americans of Hispanic descent, Native Americans, Asian populations, Arab Americans, and white ethnicities.
Optional Topics
- Demographic trends
- Identity
- Historical background
- Media portrayals
- Post racial thinking
- White privilege