This course introduces
students to the anthropological study of sexuality, gender and culture. We will examine key ethnographic case studies
from around the world that highlight diverse culturally shaped expressions of
gender and sexuality. In so doing we will empower students to challenge
assumptions surrounding gender and sexuality, and the relationship between
gender and biology. We will examine how gender intersects with other processes
of social differentiation, including race, class, sexuality, and nation. We
will explore the ethnographic record to discover ways in which cultural context
shapes beliefs, values, and practices around love, romance, gender
roles/identity, and sexuality.
- Teacher: Lauren Harding
* To introduce you to the subject matter of sociocultural anthropology. As you will see practical use can be made of knowledge in all of the four sub-fields of sociocultural anthropology. Job opportunities within the four subfields will be referred to throughout the course. This course is designed to allow you to discover your own areas of interest within the broad sub-fields of the discipline.
* To foster understanding of the ways of thought and lifestyles different from our own. By learning about other societies, we learn about ourselves. You will be exposed to a frame of reference that can lead to greater insight into your own way of life and a deeper appreciation of ways of life in other societies.
* Our core text Guest, Kenneth J. 2014. Cultural Anthropology: A Toolkit for a Global Age. 2nd edition. W. W. Norton and Company Ltd. together with lectures will show how anthropologists isolate and interpretthe patterns and structures humans reproduce in their daily lives as members of communities, societies and cultures. Readings in the on reserve in the Harriet Irving Library will illustrate the use of anthropological methods and concepts in the analysis of human life.
4 Through lectures, case studies, reading materials and assignments you will learn to critically apply what you have learned.
- Teacher: Craig Proulx
4003 is a seminar on selected issues relating to the emergence and development of relatively current issues in and socio-cultural anthropology. The course is not intended as a survey of all issues in anthropology. Instead, we will focus on a small number of overarching issues of critical importance. In particular, we will examine issues relating to the interpretation of meaning and experience in anthropology. We also will focus attention on, power, resistance, space and movement, discourse and language among others. Our fundamental aim in examining such domains will be to gain insights into ways in which anthropologists construct the knowledge that gives shape and substance to issues in contemporary anthropology. If you are planning to go to graduate school then the issues discussed herein will encapsulate some of knowledge you would be expected to have going into graduate school This course will be run through seminars and participation, which means that all members of the group share responsibility for the quality of discussion. You must participate. We will discuss ideas and issues in the readings assigned for the week.
- Teacher: Craig Proulx