Sociology: Disability as Deviance (A)

About SOC 3210 A

Analyzes constructions of disability as deviance in current and historical contexts such as American eugenics, Nazi sterilization and medical crimes, and present national policies. Prerequisites: SOC 1500; SOC 2500 or SOC 2550; minimum Junior standing.

Notes

Prerequisites enforced by the system: SOC 1500 and (SOC 2500 or SOC 2550 or POLS 2800) minimum Junior standing; PACE students by permission and override

Section Description

Using sociological perspectives and a multidisciplinary approach that spans the fields of history, disability studies, Holocaust studies, and American culture and politics, this course looks at social and historical constructions of disability as deviance. Deviance refers to beliefs, behavior, or perceived bodily conditions that violate a cultural norm and bring about a social reaction to control or confine such beliefs, behavior, or conditions. In the context of this course, we will focus on how individuals with disabilities have been “othered” (considered as not belonging and lesser, in some way, than the rest), and power and knowledge has been directed toward them as mechanism of social control. Specifically, we will explore the following contexts and developments:
1) disability in American history;
2) Social Darwinism, particularly as it relates to “eugenics” in the United States
3) German National-Socialist “racial hygiene” and its sterilization and “Euthanasia” programs, and the Holocaust

Section Expectation

Steady class attendance and participation.

Evaluation

Several exams and in-class assignments; possibly a research paper and a presentation.

Important Dates

Courses may be cancelled due to low enrollment. Show your interest by enrolling.

Resources

• Parking
• PACE Course Pricing
• Textbooks