RELI 382 - Islam, Race, and Gender in French Intellectual Culture

Semester Offered: Spring
1 unit(s)

(Same as FFS 382) Muslim French intellectuals and social activists are deeply engaged in debate and community organizing related to religion, racialization, and gender politics. This intensive is a mentored research experience that takes students into an ongoing book project on Muslim intellectual culture in France. This research draws on humanistic and social scientific methods to learn from the thinkers and social actors who are shaping Muslim collective life against the grain of the politicized construction of a “Muslim problem” in France. Key themes include social ethics, class and class mobility, racialization and religious belonging, French urban space, spirituality, and gender and sexuality. Our sources include manifestos, sociological texts, works of theology, memoirs, amateur short films, poetry, works of critical social theory, podcasts, and ethnographic interview transcripts, as well as state documents such as parliamentary reports and legislation. Virtual visits to French Muslim community spaces may be possible as part of the class. Readings are in French, and discussions and written work are in English. Students and faculty work together on original research based on these materials. Students interested in taking this intensive who do not have advanced reading knowledge of French should contact the instructor for further information. Kirsten Wesselhoeft.

Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

One 2-hour period.

Course Format: INT