Ann S. Anagnost
History of the culture concept and its use in the field of cultural anthropology. History of its emergence in European colonial expansion and contemporary debates about its place as the central concept defining the field of anthropology.
Students will gain an indepth understanding of the complex history and the multiple meanings that come together when we talk about culture within anthropology and across the humanities and social sciences. The ways in which "culture" circulates in contemporary American multiculture and in the dialectics of identity and difference in the context of globalization will also be addressed.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Class lectures will be supplemented with smaller discussion sections and an epost site set up for class participants (instructors and students).
Anthropology 100 is recommended but probably not necessary.
Class assignments and grading
Three short essays (3-8 pages each). The class qualifies as a "W" (writing) course.
Regular attendance at lectures and discussion classes. Essays must demonstrate thoughtful processing of the class materials.