ASRC 3606 - Politics of Hip-Hop Generation

Spring. 4 credits.

Co-meets with ASRC 6606.

T. Gosa.

This seminar investigates the social, cultural, and political dynamics of the hip-hop generation. The primary focus of this course will be the major political and economic forces that have shaped the world view of Black and Latino/a youth born between 1965 and 1984. During the semester, students will critically address major topics surrounding hip-hop including race-ethnicity, gender and sexuality, social class, segregation/mass-incarceration, politics, and education. After reviewing the socio-historical roots and development of hip-hop, we will examine the role of hip-hop in modern black politics and activism, including its significance for mobilizing disadvantaged youth. Special attention will be given to the generational gap between the hip-hop generations and the Civil-Rights/Black Power parents. The literatures of black studies, political science, sociology, and hip-hop studies will be used to gain a comprehensive understanding of these social issues.