This module offers an introduction to sexuality and identity politics. The module focusses on the ways in which sexuality drives, and is shaped by, identity politics; looking at activism and resistance at the national/international level, as well as the politics individuals and groups experience every day. The module begins by introducing theories of sexuality and key concepts including, but not limited to, sexology, queer theory, and (hetero)normativity. Once these foundations are set the module then turns to explore in more detail political movements and activism relating to sexuality, and politics and policy related to sex (such as reproductive rights and sex work) and sexuality (such as the rights of minoritised sexualities). The module also demonstrates how sexuality and/as identity politics shapes both national and international politics more generally, such as how the assumed naturalness of heterosexuality influences policy-making across policy domains (e.g. health, economics, security).
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Critically examine different theories of sexuality
Describe the emergence, dynamics and growth of activism and movements relevant to the study of sex/sexuality politics
Apply theories of sexuality to examples of policy relating to sex and sexuality
Apply theories of sexuality to understand the character of national and international politics
