Race, racism and Colonialism

Overview

This module explores sociological perspectives and empirical research on the processes of colonialism and imperialism, and their relationship with modernization. It will also cover the social construction of race and racism, including issues surrounding Blackness and Whiteness, from a range of socio-historic contexts. The connections between racism and colonialism are a central focus of attention in this course. Finally, this course will explore contemporary debates about decoloniality in sociology and the social sciences.

Learning Objectives

Students will develop an understanding of the historical and contemporary debates surrounding the connections between race, racism and colonialsm. By the end of this module, students will be able to:
- understand contemporary sociological debates on the causes and significance of racism;

- analyse and critique the connections between racism and colonialism in historic and contemporary contexts;

- demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of the major sociological perspectives on racism and colonialism, and the way in which those perspectives have developed;

- understand how racism and colonialism shape contemporary social relations

- critically evaluate the appropriateness of different perspectives to explaining empirical cases.

- Explore current debates on “decoloniality”

Skills

Students will have the opportunity to develop the following skills:

Intellectual skills

Analyse, evaluate and interpret information

Develop and defend reasoned opinions

Develop and demonstrate independent thinking



Employability Skills (Practical skills transferable into employment):

Communication

Using the spoken word - participating in discussions

Using the written word



b) Information and communication technology

Searching and obtaining information

Entering and processing data

Presenting information



c) Improving own learning & performance

Demonstrating a degree of independence while learning

Reviewing progress and achievements



d) Problem solving

Identifying a problem

Exploring options

Selecting an appropriate solution

Use of appropriate resources

Synthesis, critical analysis, and interpretation of information

Assessment

None