Soc Now: African Societies (ISSOC-125)

This course provides an introduction to African countries from a sociological and historical perspective. The course begins with a study of pre-colonial and colonial Africa, and then delves into contemporary issues throughout Africa. Through readings, films, and speakers, we will gain insight into Africa's cultural variation and complexity. A study of Africa's individual countries grounded in sociological theories will highlight Africa's diversity in geography, demography, and social institutions. In addition to developing your knowledge of Africa, this ISP Perspectives course is designed to strengthen your critical thinking skills. I therefore encourage you to question evidence, analyze underlying assumptions, consider the context of ideas, be open to diverse perspectives, and challenge the logic of suspect conclusions.