Alternative Curricula: Resisting through scholarship

Alternative Curricula is an open, informal discussion group exploring postcolonial and decolonial theory. All are welcome: staff, students, locals and visitors. No prior knowledge of the topic is necessary, nor is there any obligation to attend every meeting.

We generally meet on Wednesdays in weeks 2, 4, and 6 at 5pm in Somerville College, but we will meet online only from January to March. We will circulate a link for the meeting via our mailing list, which you can join by emailing altcurricula@gmail.com.

Hilary Termcard: Resisting(?) the Neoliberal University
This term, our discussions focus on methods of surviving and resisting logics of neoliberal individuation and oppression within the academy. We approach ideas of resistance with caution, acknowledging the seductiveness of the ‘romance of resistance’ (Abu-Lughod 1990). At the same time, we explore how scholars, writers and teachers have worked within the structure of the university to develop resistant models of teaching, learning and scholarship.

Abu‐Lughod, L. (1990). The romance of resistance: Tracing transformations of power through Bedouin women. American Ethnologist,17(1), 41-55.

You can find more details and the reading list for upcoming meetings at tinyurl.com/altcurricula.