Foundations of Race and Racism: A Social Theory Introduction

Race and racism are complex forces shaping society, requiring a rigorous theoretical framework to analyze effectively. This course provides that essential foundation. By the end of this course, you will move beyond simple definitions to grasp the fundamental debates surrounding the nature of race, how systemic racism operates across institutions, and the theoretical underpinnings of modern anti-racist practice. What you'll learn: * Understand the historical and theoretical debates concerning race as a biological versus a social construct. * Analyze the key concepts of individual, institutional, and systemic racism and how they manifest in contemporary society. * Examine the principles of intersectionality, exploring how race interacts with class, gender, and other social categories. * Practice applying foundational social theories to interpret current events and social structures. * Identify potential counter-measures and theoretical frameworks that drive movements for equity and social change. The course begins with foundational terminology and historical context, transitions into detailed analysis of various theoretical accounts of race and racism, and concludes by exploring practical applications of these theories to contemporary social issues. This course is designed for absolute beginners interested in sociology, social justice, or critical theory. No prior knowledge of social science is required. Start reading today to build a rigorous theoretical understanding of race and racism.