Why Intersectionality Studies
What is intersectionality?
Power matters. It generates hierarchies and patterns of domination that distribute political and economic resources, privileges and social participation unevenly. Inequality and discrimination are thus triggered. Power is coded by gender, race, ability, age, class, amongst others, thus generating sexism, racism, ableism, ageism, classism. As a result, social positions are generated that result in identities.
These, however, display in a multifaceted way. Kimberlé Crenshaw, who coined the term “intersectionality” in the late 1980s, stressed that different layers of power, discrimination and privileges overlap und multiply. As a result, persons may be discriminated against by gender and sexuality, for example, yet own power and privileges as guaranteed by racism. Kimberlé Crenshaw, who coined the term “intersectionality” in the late 1980s, stressed that different layers of power, discrimination and privileges overlap und multiply. As a result, persons may be discriminated against by gender and sexuality, for example, yet own power and privileges as guaranteed by racism.
Why study intersectionality and diversity
The programme will introduce to core concepts of intersectionality studies such as power, privilege, discrimination, social position, identity, diversity, and conflicting notions of difference and exclusion as well as unity in diversity, solidarity and inclusion. In doing so, theory and empirical analysis are bridged. You will be taught the grammar of discrimination and enabled to identify, grasp and overcome it. Thus framed, you will be introduced to theories and practices of anti-discrimination, empowerment and diversity-management and asked to employ them. Such investigations ideally pave the way into social approaches of societal unity as pillared by empathy, solidarity and responsibility.