This course examines the concepts of intersectionality and interdisciplinarity, as well as how these relate to feminist research and knowledge production. It considers the theoretical, conceptual, and historical development of each, and uses insights derived from these investigations to think through what it means to “do” research that is intersectional and/or interdisciplinary. The first part of the course considers interdisciplinary perspectives in women’s and gender studies; it pays particular attention to processes of disciplinization, and the consequent problems arising for interdisciplinary research and its review. The second part of the course focuses on the origins and development of intersectionality. It investigates the theoretical and methodological problems attendant upon intersectionality as an interdisciplinary form of analysis, and an approach based on feminist and gender theories. Students are also invited to consider how the concepts of intersectionality and interdisciplinarity apply to their own research projects.
- Instructor: Hannah Loney