What are the assumptions we have about what is "normal" versus what is deviant, aberrant, or criminal? Where do these assumptions come from, and how do they impact how we judge ourselves and others? This course will address some histories of how the idea of "normal" bodies, behavior, identities, and relationships arose in the United States, and how these narratives continue to be reproduced in our contemporary moment. We will discuss how cissexism, heteropatriarchy, white supremacy, and ableism are reproduced through various structures, including our visual landscape, the medical field, biometrics, and our built environment. We will also discuss creative ways to interrupt and upend the idea of normalcy in our work, in our lives, and in our relationships.Foundations in Critical Studies introduces critical thinking skills essential to college-level work in the humanities and sciences. Students develop their critical capacities through close reading and active response to cultural texts and phenomena drawn from multiple disciplines and reflecting diverse perspectives on major themes or topics in contemporary life.

Visit Workday to view this information.