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Required Texts:

Anne Minas, Ed., Gender Basics: Feminist Perspectives on Women and Men, 2^nd Edition

* Readings on hold in the library

Grade Distribution:

First Paper:	30%
Second Paper:	30%
Midterm Exam:	25%
Presentation:	15%

Due Dates:

First Paper:	October 8^th
Second Paper:	November 21^st
Midterm Exam:	October 24^th

Course Info and Policies:

In this class we will be examining gender roles within the context of both romantic relationships, including marriage, and family relationships. We will begin by examining the nature of gender oppression and the effects that oppression may have on such relationships. We will continue by exploring various ideas and arguments concerning traditional gender roles within the family, and the relationship between these concerns and issues of race, class, and sexuality. It is my hope that students will be able to make connections between the ideas contained in much of this material and their personal experiences; however, because this is primarily a philosophy class, greater emphasis will be placed on critical evaluation of the material, and on argument in general.

Attendance and Participation:

Participation will be quite essential in this class. Students should come prepared to discuss the readings in detail—to offer their reasoned views on the material, to ask questions when something is unclear, and to listen respectfully to other students’ contributions. To this end, you are expected to read the material assigned before each class. I really want students to understand the material and get something out of this class (this is why I’m so concerned about attendance and participation). It is also your responsibility to take careful notes during class, and not just when I write something on the board (I may write nothing on the board during lecture; but you still need to make sure you understand and remember what I’ve said).

Internet/Email Accounts:

If you do not already have an account, please get one (they are available free to all UIC students). Check the class website regularly for updates, announcements, and assignments, especially if you’ve missed class. Note: this means there’s no excuse for not knowing what you’re supposed to read or write for class, or not being able to reach me. I check my e-mail everyday.

Late Penalties:

Late papers will lose a third of a grade for each day past the due date (if your is late, please contact me as soon as possible so I know when you’ll be turning it in). Extensions for papers may be granted if you ask me more than 2 days before the assignment is due, you provide a good reason for the extension, and you make arrangements with me to turn your paper in at a specific time. This will be treated as your new deadline, after which your paper will lose a third of a grade each day that it is late. You must complete all assignments in order to pass this course.