This course will generate an understanding of the sociology of W. E. B. DuBois and the role of insurgent theory. In it, we will uncover DuBois' role as a founder of American sociology and analyze the social and political factors that relegated DuBois to the margins of the sociological enterprise for over a century. Further, we will explore the significance of W.E.B. DuBois' contributions to projects of collective racial advancement and the intellectual climate of twentieth-century America; identify critical junctures in the scholar's life related to his evolving and some would argue increasingly radical worldview; highlight the importance of DuBois' sociological, philosophical, artistic, and educational contributions to the transformation of 20th century American society; and ruminate on what lessons the life and work of DuBois offer us in this contemporary moment.
- Teacher: Nina Johnson