Engaging the World:Theory & Anthropology

Subject 121-305 (2008)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2008.Search for this in the current handbookSearch for this in the current handbook

Credit Points: 12.500
Level: Undergraduate
Dates & Locations:

This subject is not offered in 2008.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: A 2-hour lecture and a 1-hour tutorial per week.
Total Time Commitment: .
Prerequisites: Usually 37.5 points of core Anthropology and Social Theory subjects
Corequisites: .
Recommended Background Knowledge: .
Non Allowed Subjects: .
Core Participation Requirements: .

Coordinator

To be advised
Subject Overview:

This capstone subject considers the role of social theory, both classical and modern, in anthropology. Its foci are simultaneously theoretical and practical. Firstly, through critical reading of a selection of core monographs, the subject explores how social theory both shapes and is shaped by the ethnographic research that anthropologists undertake. Secondly, through first-hand research on a contemporary substantive field, for example, familiarity, embodiment, subjectivity or identity, the subject introduces students to the art of grounded theory building. Students should complete this subject with knowledge of the historic role of different social theoretical traditions within anthropology, and with a firm grounding in the skills of empirically informed theory-building.

Assessment: A 2000 word essay 50% (due at the end of week 9), and a 2000 word research essay 50% (due at the end of semester).
Prescribed Texts: A subject reader will be available from the Bookroom at the beginning of the semester.
Recommended Texts:

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Breadth Options:

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.
Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills:

  • be able to apply research skills and critical methods to a field of inquiry;

  • be able to develop persuasive arguments on a given topic;

  • be able to communicate oral and written arguments and ideas effectively and articulately.
Notes:

Third year Capstone subject in NewGen 'Anthropology and Social Theory' major.
Related Course(s): Graduate Diploma in Arts (Anthropology and Social Theory)

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