Last modified: 31 Jul 2023 11:19
This course explores theoretical issues and key debates in contemporary anthropology. We begin with the questioning of the central concepts of culture and society in anthropology during the 1980s. Following this, we ask: how can anthropology proceed if the targets of its investigation can no longer be understood as objective entities? How can anthropology proceed if the anthropologist themselves is inevitably implicated in and part of those very targets? To look for possible answers, the course examines current anthropological interest in power and history, political economy and phenomenology, experience, embodiment and practice, ontology and things that speak.
| Study Type | Undergraduate | Level | 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term | First Term | Credit Points | 30 credits (15 ECTS credits) |
| Campus | Aberdeen | Sustained Study | No |
| Co-ordinators |
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This course explores the main critical debates in contemporary anthropology in the context of their development within the history of the field. We will critically examine the foundation of the discipline and its unique approach to modelling time, the definition of the person, and materiality. We will further explore contemporary debates surrounding multi-natures, political ecology and the authoritative voice. The course will anchor contemporary challenges, such as the ecological crisis in long-term theoretical themes. The course will provide an overview of evolutionist, functionalist, Marxist, structuralist, and practice anthropology – as well as explore the “anthropology of the good” and “ethical projects”
Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.
Annotated Biblio (500-words)
Discursive Review (1200-words)
Research Essay (2000-words)
3hr Exam
There are no assessments for this course.
| Knowledge Level | Thinking Skill | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Procedural | Analyse | produce coherent and reasoned arguments in written work and class discussions about topics related to anthropological theories |
| Conceptual | Create | describe and explore competing theories from different European and non-European contexts and traditions |
| Procedural | Remember | The course encourages you to present structured and reasoned points to a small group. |
| Conceptual | Analyse | The course gives you an opportunity to work with each other in preparing group work |
| Reflection | Analyse | engage in self-directed learning |
| Conceptual | Understand | critical reflection on the major developments in anthropological theory |
| Procedural | Analyse | the course encourages the complex use of online research materials |
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