ISL-600: Studies in Islamophobia

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course provides a comprehensive examination of Islamophobia as a social, political, and cultural phenomenon, exploring its historical roots, contemporary manifestations, and global impact. Students will analyze the construction of Islamophobic narratives through media, political discourse, and public policy, with a focus on their effects on Muslim communities and broader societal dynamics. The course investigates the intersection of Islamophobia with racism, xenophobia, and orientalism, as well as its role in shaping national and international policies, particularly in the context of security, immigration, and human rights. Through theoretical frameworks, case studies, and critical discussions, students will develop a nuanced understanding of Islamophobia’s causes, consequences, and strategies for countering it, fostering a commitment to intercultural dialogue and social justice.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Trace Historical Contexts: Examine the historical origins and evolution of Islamophobia, from early encounters between the Islamic world and the West to modern-day manifestations.

2. Analyze Discursive Frameworks: Critically assess the role of media, political rhetoric, and cultural representations in constructing and perpetuating Islamophobic narratives.

3. Evaluate Societal Impacts: Investigate the social, psychological, and political impacts of Islamophobia on Muslim communities, including discrimination, marginalization, and identity formation.

4. Explore Intersections with Other Forms of Bias: Analyze how Islamophobia intersects with racism, xenophobia, and orientalism, and its implications for broader systems of inequality.

5. Assess Policy Implications: Evaluate the impact of Islamophobia on public policy, particularly in areas such as national security, immigration, and civil liberties, and its consequences for democratic principles.

6. Develop Counter-Strategies: Identify and propose strategies to combat Islamophobia, including education, advocacy, interfaith dialogue, and policy reform, grounded in principles of equity and justice.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will demonstrate the ability to:

1. Articulate Core Concepts: Clearly explain the historical, cultural, and political dimensions of Islamophobia through written assignments and oral presentations.

2. Conduct Critical Analysis: Produce a research paper or project that critically analyzes a specific instance of Islamophobia, applying theoretical frameworks to assess its causes and effects.

3. Engage with Diverse Sources: Synthesize academic literature, media analyses, and primary sources (e.g., policy documents, personal narratives) to construct evidence-based arguments about Islamophobia.

4. Propose Actionable Solutions: Develop informed and practical recommendations for addressing Islamophobia, focusing on community engagement, policy reform, and cultural education.

5. Foster Collaborative Dialogue: Participate in group discussions and role-playing exercises to explore diverse perspectives and build strategies for intercultural understanding.

6. Demonstrate Cultural Sensitivity: Approach the study of Islamophobia with an awareness of cultural, religious, and historical nuances, promoting respectful and inclusive discourse.

COURSE CMS SPECIFICS

Credit value: 3-6 (US standard) | 6-12 (ECTS standard)

Indicative duration (full-time): 4-10 weeks

Indicative duration (part-time): 5-12 weeks

Certificate: Yes

COURSE METHODOLOGY

This course is based on standard EUCLID methodology. Students may refer to the following resources:

Academic Guidelines (HQ version)

Academic Guidelines (most recent version, even if unofficial)

Student Orientation Guidelines (most recent version, even if unofficial)

Zotero instructions for EUCLID students

Grammarly instructions for EUCLID students

REQUIRED TEXTS AND MATERIAL

Course material is provided in the form of embedded videos, audio MP3s, and/or downloadable PDFs.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

Written Assignments, Response Papers and Major Paper: 40% (must pass)

Quiz: 10% (must pass)

Final Exam: 50% (must pass)

COURSE SYLLABUS | ACCESS TO 7 PERIODS