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Sexuality and Power: The Social Relations of Sex and the Sexes - POLS2041
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Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
 
 
School:  School of Social Sciences and International Studies
 
 
Course Outline: http://www.arts.unsw.edu.au/politics/
 
 
Campus: Kensington Campus
 
 
Career: Undergraduate
 
 
Units of Credit: 6
 
 
EFTSL: 0.12500 (more info)
 
 
Indicative Contact Hours per Week: 3
 
 
Enrolment Requirements:
 
 
Prerequisite: 36 units of credit
 
 
Equivalent: POLS3049, WOMS2006
 
 
Fee Band: 1 (more info)
 
 
Further Information: See Class Timetable
 
 

Description

Introduces some of the main theories of power and of sexuality; analyses different sexualities, and issues relating to sexuality, in the context of theories of power. Topics include compulsory heterosexuality; the construction of masculinity, femininity and desire; marriage and prostitution; sexuality and work; body politics; and pornography and popular culture.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
  • Grasp the ways in which sexuality is political and to engage with central debates in the field
  • Demonstrate a greater awareness of (the often implicit) power relations that construct and regulate the 'normal' and 'everyday' patterns of sexual identities and relations
  • Understand the ways in which our own subjectivity is shaped by prevailing discourses
  • Critically reflect upon the politics of sexuality in daily life, be it in advertising, popular culture, public policy, social institutions or in social relations
  • To think critically, to question and better defend their own ideas in relation to sexuality and issues of power.

Assessment

  • Essay (2500 words) - 40%
  • Class test 1 - 20%
  • Class test 2 - 20%
  • Written tutorial work - 10%
  • Tutorial participation - 10%

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© The University of New South Wales (CRICOS Provider No.: 00098G), 2004-2011. The information contained in this Handbook is indicative only. While every effort is made to keep this information up-to-date, the University reserves the right to discontinue or vary arrangements, programs and courses at any time without notice and at its discretion. While the University will try to avoid or minimise any inconvenience, changes may also be made to programs, courses and staff after enrolment. The University may also set limits on the number of students in a course.