ANTH375 Social Construction of Sexualities

The A essay develops a clear and challenging thesis in a logical and coherent way to a powerful and persuasive conclusion. In the course of the argument, the piece offers superior insights into the subject and reveals its subtle implications, its complexities and its profundities. The essay also attests to the student's excellent knowledge and understanding of the issues under discussion, and an outstanding capacity to select illustrations that clarify and buttress the argument. Supportive borrowings from secondary sources are employed accurately and tellingly. All indebtedness is meticulously acknowledged. The minimal stylistic criteria for an A level essay are clarity and correctness. The piece is virtually free of errors in spelling, punctuation, grammar or usage. The grade of A is awarded for an exceptional performance.

Sexuality has gone from being a matter of “sexual practices” (‘sex’) to being viewed not only as part of the public interest and discourse but also as a distinct academic discipline. Using your readings and the films watched in class, discuss this shift. Explain the emergence and evolution of ‘sexuality.’

Michel Foucault coined the term "biopower" to refer to the ways in which power manifests itself in the form of daily practices and routines through which individuals engage in self-surveillance and self-discipline, and thereby subjugate themselves. Identify 2 ways in which you (or people in general, if you are uncomfortable speaking about yourself) participate in the practice of sexual self-regulation. Discuss what it means for a society in which people are presumably “sexually liberated.” How does Foucault invite us to consider the notion of ‘power in today’s society?’