Feminism and Social Justice from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

What is feminism?

Feminism is a movement, a philosophical perspective, and a driver of social change. It has various goals and constituencies, and it continues to be adapted in response to new conditions. In this module, you will be introduced to Dr. Aptheker's working definition of feminism, which she has cultivated and refined over her prolific career. You will also have an opportunity to discuss the meaning and purpose of feminism with your fellow learners.

Salt of the Earth

In 1951, zinc miners in southwestern New Mexico went on strike in response to the Empire Zinc Company's discriminatory treatment of Mexican-American workers and their families. After the miners were prevented from protesting by a court order, their wives maintained the picket line. In this module, you will learn about the causes, conditions, and outcomes of the strike. You will also hear the story of the controversial 1954 feature film (called "Salt of the Earth") that documented the struggle of its key figures. The entire film is available in the module.

Free Angela!

In 1970, FBI agents arrested the feminist scholar and activist Angela Davis for her alleged connection to the Soledad Brothers, inmates of Soledad Prison in central California who were accused of killing a guard. At the time of the arrest, President Richard Nixon referred to Davis as a "terrorist." In this module, you will hear Dr. Aptheker's personal experience of Davis' arrest and trial, and you will learn about the extraordinary movement that grew in support of Davis.

The #metoo Movement

The hashtag "metoo" appeared on social media in 2017 in response to a number of high-profile sexual assault allegations in the entertainment industry. It quickly spread to other societal domains and continues to spur discussion and action around the world. In this module, you will learn about the causes and outcomes of the #metoo movement, and its contribution to feminism and social justice. You will also have an opportunity to discuss recent changes resulting from the #metoo movement with your fellow learners.

Additional Materials (Optional)

Dr. Aptheker writes and lectures on a variety of topics. You can find new materials that she produces in this optional module.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores feminism within the contexts of pivotal historical events, offering insights into its multifaceted nature and social impact

Led by the renowned Dr. Bettina Aptheker, an established scholar in feminist studies

Suitable for individuals seeking a comprehensive understanding of feminism and its relevance to social justice movements

Examines the #metoo Movement, a contemporary social phenomenon that has spurred discussions about sexual assault and gender equality

Provides opportunities for learners to engage in discussions and share perspectives with fellow students

The course may be suitable for upper-level undergraduate or graduate students interested in women's studies, history, or social justice

Reviews summary

Feminism and social justice

Learners say this course is a solid introduction to the history and core concepts of feminism and its intersection with social justice. It includes case studies and personal anecdotes from the instructor, who has experience in feminist movements, and is highly engaging and accessible.

case studies and personal anecdotes from the instructor, who has experience in feminist movements

"It includes case studies and personal anecdotes from the instructor, who has experience in feminist movements, and is highly engaging and accessible."

solid introduction to the history and core concepts of feminism

"Learners say this course is a solid introduction to the history and core concepts of feminism and its intersection with social justice."

learners say

"Learners say this course is a solid introduction to the history and core concepts of feminism and its intersection with social justice."

"It includes case studies and personal anecdotes from the instructor, who has experience in feminist movements, and is highly engaging and accessible."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Feminism and Social Justice with these activities:

Review previous coursework or readings

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Refresh your memory on concepts and theories related to feminism and gender studies to ensure a strong foundation for the course.

Browse courses on Feminism

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Go over your notes or revisit relevant readings from previous courses.
Focus on key concepts, theories, and historical contexts.

Familiarize yourself with key concepts

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Review the fundamental principles of feminism and its intersection with social justice to lay a solid foundation for understanding the course content.

Browse courses on Feminism

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Review your notes from previous courses or read introductory articles on feminism.
Consider examples of social justice movements that have incorporated feminist perspectives.

Participate in a discussion group

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Engage with your peers to exchange ideas, challenge perspectives, and deepen your understanding of the course material.

Browse courses on Feminist Theory

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Find a study group or discussion forum related to feminist studies.
Prepare for discussions by reading the assigned material and formulating questions or insights.
Actively participate in discussions, sharing your thoughts and listening to others.

Four other activities

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Explore online resources on feminist activism

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Gain insights into contemporary feminist movements and their strategies for social change.

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Search for online tutorials or documentaries on feminist activism.
Take notes on different approaches and case studies.
Identify areas where you can contribute or support feminist causes.

Read "The Second Sex" by Simone de Beauvoir

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Familiarize yourself with a classic work of feminist literature to deepen your comprehension of the historical and philosophical foundations of the movement.

View The Blood of Others on Amazon

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Read the book thoroughly and take notes on key concepts.
Identify the main arguments and how they contribute to feminist theory.
Consider how the book's ideas resonate with the course material.

Write a blog post or essay

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Engage with the course material through written expression to enhance your understanding and critical thinking skills.

Browse courses on Feminist Theory

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Choose a feminist topic that resonates with you.
Research and gather information from scholarly sources.
Develop a thesis statement that articulates your main argument or perspective.
Organize your thoughts into a logical and coherent structure.
Write a draft and seek feedback from peers or the instructor.

Connect with experts in the field

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Seek guidance and mentorship from individuals who have experience and expertise in feminist studies or social justice to enrich your learning.

Browse courses on Social Justice

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Identify potential mentors through professional networks, conferences, or online platforms.
Reach out to individuals and express your interest in mentorship.
Establish regular meetings or communication channels to seek advice and insights.

Career center

Learners who complete Feminism and Social Justice will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Social Justice Activist

Social Justice Activists work to monitor, oppose, and eradicate unjust laws, systems, and policies. Dr. Bettina Aptheker presents a broad definition of feminism that serves to frame three significant events in the history of feminism and social justice: the Empire Zinc strike of 1951, the 1971-1972 trial of Angela Davis, and the #metoo Movement. This course will help you develop the knowledge and skills needed to be an effective Social Justice Activist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Social Justice Activist

Civil Rights Attorney

Civil Rights Attorneys focus their practice on discrimination and the rights guaranteed by the Constitution. Some Civil Rights Attorneys handle class action lawsuits, while others work with individuals who need legal help. This course will provide you with a deep understanding of the history and current events of feminism and social justice. This information will be particularly helpful when preparing legal arguments and advising clients.

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Community Organizer

Community Organizers work to bring people together to address community issues. They may work on issues such as housing, education, or healthcare. This course will help you develop the skills needed to be an effective Community Organizer. The course's focus on feminism and social justice will prepare you to work with diverse communities and to advocate for social change.

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Nonprofit Manager

Nonprofit Managers oversee the day-to-day operations of nonprofit organizations. This includes budgeting, fundraising, developing programs, and hiring staff. This course will help you develop the leadership and management skills needed to be successful in this role. The course's emphasis on feminism and social justice will prepare you to lead organizations that are committed to making a positive impact on the world.

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Journalist

Journalists research, write, and report on news and current events. They may work for newspapers, magazines, websites, or television news programs. This course will help you develop the research, writing, and reporting skills needed to be successful in this role. The course's focus on feminism and social justice will prepare you to report on these issues from a critical perspective.

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Public Policy Analyst

Public Policy Analysts research and analyze public policy issues. They may work for government agencies, think tanks, or nonprofit organizations. This course will help you develop the research and analytical skills needed to be successful in this role. The course's focus on feminism and social justice will prepare you to analyze policies from a critical perspective and to advocate for policies that promote social justice.

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Educator

Educators teach students at all levels, from preschool to college. They may work in public or private schools, or in community organizations. This course will help you develop the teaching skills needed to be successful in this role. The course's focus on feminism and social justice will prepare you to teach these issues in a way that is engaging and empowering for students.

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Social Worker

Social Workers help people who are facing challenges, such as poverty, mental illness, or addiction. They may work in a variety of settings, such as schools, hospitals, or community centers. This course will help you develop the skills needed to be successful in this role. The course's focus on feminism and social justice will prepare you to work with people who are marginalized and to advocate for their rights.

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Counselor

Counselors provide support and guidance to people who are facing challenges. They may work in a variety of settings, such as schools, hospitals, or private practice. This course will help you develop the skills needed to be successful in this role. The course's focus on feminism and social justice will prepare you to work with people who are marginalized and to advocate for their rights.

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Human Resources Manager

Human Resources Managers oversee the day-to-day operations of human resources departments. This includes recruiting, hiring, training, and developing employees. This course will help you develop the leadership and management skills needed to be successful in this role. The course's emphasis on feminism and social justice will prepare you to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace.

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Diversity and Inclusion Manager

Diversity and Inclusion Managers develop and implement programs that promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace. They may also work with employees to address issues of discrimination and harassment. This course will help you develop the skills needed to be successful in this role. The course's focus on feminism and social justice will prepare you to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace.

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Public relations manager

Public Relations Managers manage the public image of organizations. They may work for a variety of organizations, including businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies. This course will help you develop the public relations skills needed to be successful in this role. The course's focus on feminism and social justice will prepare you to manage the public image of organizations in a way that is transparent and accountable.

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Sales Manager

Sales Managers oversee the sales team of an organization. They may work for a variety of organizations, including businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies. This course will help you develop the leadership and management skills needed to be successful in this role. The course's emphasis on feminism and social justice will prepare you to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace.

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Marketing Manager

Marketing Managers develop and implement marketing campaigns. They may work for a variety of organizations, including businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies. This course will help you develop the marketing skills needed to be successful in this role. The course's focus on feminism and social justice will prepare you to create marketing campaigns that are inclusive and empowering.

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Business Analyst

Business Analysts help organizations improve their business processes. They may work for a variety of organizations, including businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies. This course will help you develop the analytical skills needed to be successful in this role. The course's focus on feminism and social justice will prepare you to analyze business processes from a critical perspective and to identify ways to make them more inclusive and equitable.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst