Module 4: Journal – Differential JusticePurpose
It might seem strange to you, but the invention of the birth control pill affected sexual relations, dating, marriage, and reproduction in the United States in revolutionary ways. In fact, in 2010, Time magazine named it the most important invention of the 20th century. I would like for you to explore this invention as a powerful mechanism of social change.
This assignment is aligned with the module learning objectives #2-5, 7, 8, and 10.
Directions
Please follow the journal guidelines to complete the assignment.
Margaret Sanger is credited with the invention of the birth control pill and also the founder of Planned Parenthood. She is most often presented as a heroine and advocate for women’s rights and birth control. By reading the following two sources, you will see two very different sides of her.
- First, read People & Events: Margaret Sanger (1879-1966)Links to an external site. about her advocacy for women and work to end Comstock laws.
- Next, read The Eugenic Value of Birth Control Propaganda by Margaret SangerLinks to an external site. about a darker look at her early work that supported eugenics and the promotion of infertility among racial minority women and women with intellectual disabilities.
- Read SOCL 120: Introduction to Sociology – Differential JusticeLinks to an external site..
After reading the required resources please respond to the following questions in a 2 page journal. You will need to do some research of your own to fully answer these questions.
- Thinking specifically about the recent overturning of Roe V. Wade by the Supreme Court, what is the relationship between differential justice and reproductive justice?
- In what ways are race, gender and sexuality highlighted by differential justice as it applies to abortion?
- Are there particular racial or ethnic populations in the United States who are more likely to face differential justice? If so, which population(s) and why?
In your journal you will want to make sure that you utilize Intersectional Theory to discuss the ways in which race, gender, and sexuality inequalities overlap in this important social issue.
Please note that this journal is not asking you to discuss your personal thoughts on reproductive justice (including abortion), but rather to demonstrate how this topic highlights differential justice.
Links:
1. https://web.archive.org/web/20170227081207/http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/pill/peopleevents/p_sanger.html
2. https://socialwelfare.library.vcu.edu/programs/health-nutrition/eugenic-value-birth-control-propaganda/
3. https://socl120.wordpress.com/2013/03/22/differential-justice/
