PAS 227

Survey of American Diversity - D1, SB

A social map of the contemporary United States reveals several culturally-identified human groups based upon race, ethnicity, religion, language, family origins, and other characteristics. While diversity has become integral to the American society, it is an area that is little-studied and far less understood by many. This course will help students better understand racial and ethnic diversity in today's society. More than a historical overview, this course includes selected readings and film which provide glimpses behind the facade of the "other", to see some of the struggles they face as they become part of the American "fabric'. In the process of developing this understanding, we will constantly challenge ourselves by asking two main questions: "Who is an American?" and "What does it mean to become an American?

Units: 3.0