ASSIGNMENTS GEOG/WMST 3672
Response Paper #1
This paper is intended to help you understand the breadth and complexity of the definition of globalization. Think about how this term incorporates a wide range of factors, not just economics. Furthermore, it is intended to help you see the historical roots and foundations of the globalization process. If you think about these conceptual and historical "big pictures", you will go a long way towards understanding globalization.
Over the last several weeks we have talked and read about global economies. Starting with colonialism, we have begun to build a framework for global economic processes that include not only economic and political relations, but also their impacts on and resulting changes in cultural, social and ideological structures. Using this analytical framework, discuss how modern economic global processes require changes in cultural, social and ideological structures, and argue whether this is a good or a bad thing. Draw examples from readings, the movie and the game.
Remember, this is a short paper. It should contain the essence of your ideas, with reference to some examples, in a concise, logical, and complete argument. (Remember your writing skills: Thesis statement at the beginning, supporting paragraphs, conclusion. Also include a topic sentence in each paragraph.) Good Luck.
Response Paper #2
What is the value of the concept of "gender relations" as a framework for understanding gendered forms of power? In your paper discuss the private and the public spheres and the relationship between the two. How does this relationship help us to reconsider how we define political behavior and power?
Response Paper # 3
Summarize the main ideas of Shiva concerning development and ecofeminism, as discussed in the first two chapters of your assignment. Summarize the main critiques made by Nanda in her piece. (Bullet points are OK).
Response Paper #4: Due April 13
Vandana Shiva and Meera Nanda present different views of the ways that development can support or hinder the empowerment of women. Using examples drawn from the Carney, Tiano, Jellinek, and Harrison case studies, discuss which approach (Shiva or Nanda) you support and why.
Preliminary Term Paper Assignment
Following are some ofthe concepts you should be looking for as you read "The Joys of Motherhood". We will discuss the exact term paper topic during the week of April 6/8.
-the interconnections between global systems and local processes (rural, urban, or migration)
-intersections of forms of oppression for women and men (race, class, ethnicity, gender, imperialism)
-descriptions of and changes in the main characters' gender identity over time
-forms of agency or resistance exhibited by characters. (This can be overt or passive resistance; agency exhibited as changes in gender identity).