In American society, race and ethnicity are simultaneously lightning rods for social conflict and sources of social cohesion. In this course, we will explore the complex and sometimes contradictory roles of race and ethnicity in both the public and private lives of contemporary Americans. The course examines a series of contemporary race-related public issues: transracial adoption, immigration reform, affirmative action, and cultural rights. In an effort to better understand the nature of these issues, we will be exploring the social theories and empirical realities of race and ethnicity. Topics covered include: primordial and contextual theories of the nature of race/ethnicity; the realities of racial/ethnic inequality in America; theories of immigrant assimilation, cultural pluralism, and multiculturalism; the role of race in the evolution of an "American" identity; and the nature of personal racial and ethnic identities. Requirements: two essays and final exam. Enrollment limited to 25; preference to juniors and seniors, sophomores by permission of the instructor.