Difference Matters: “Isms” in America
Class Continues: Spring | Registration opens Friday, January 3, 2025 9:30 AM MST
This course will explore “isms” (e.g., racism, sexism, heterosexism, ageism, ableism, classism, and antisemitism). We will discuss the pervasive institutionalism of “isms“ in the United States, ever since Columbus introduced slavery in the Americas. We will site historical and current examples in the U.S., Utah, St George and on the UT campus.
Besides isms, we will study “phobias.” Examples include transphobia, Islamophobia, and xenophobia (discrimination based on persons perceived to be “foreign” to the United States.) We will discuss what we can do as individuals and as groups in a time when “isms” are overtly sanctioned by politicians.
Despite the heavy topic, the instructor’s zany sense of humor will ensure the course is entertaining.
This is a 10-week course.
No class on March 13 (Spring Break)
Robert Kramer
Dr. Kramer earned his doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Utah. Through his varied and extensive career, Dr. Kramer has been passionate about wellness and has pioneered wellness solutions. Before that, he worked with abused children and their families. While most of his 35-year career has been in healthcare leadership positions, he has continued to deliver life coaching, meditation and hypnosis to individuals and groups, and has continued a lifelong study of wellness, positive psychology and personal motivation. Dr. Kramer has also been a frequent speaker at national conferences.
Dr. Kramer has received numerous awards and recognition in his various roles, including: Director of the Year at Wasatch Canyons Hospital (Intermountain Health Care); CEO of the year at Pioneer Health (Highland Ridge Hospital); Presidents Circle and LifeWorks Business Development Leader of the Year at Ceridian Corporation and The Top Performer’s Club every year while at Staywell.