This module aims to develop the theoretical imagination of students by making them familiar with the central debates that have shaped anthropological theory from the early twentieth century to our contemporary debates. That is, we aim to instil the ability to apprehend theoretical issues and apply them with a critical and informed sense of the role of difference in the human experience. The module is not a 'history of theory' survey; rather, it will proceed by? ?leading the students through the complex interrelations and cross references that have shaped anthropological theory over the past century. The module is organised around the theme of human social relations (broadly defined), which will be used as a lens through which to view theoretical discussions within social anthropology as well as its appropriations from other disciplines.
Private Study: 128
Contact Hours: 22
Total: 150
Optional for the following:
BSc Anthropology (including cognate courses)
BA Environment and Sustainability
Not available as an elective module.
Analytical Essay 2000-2500 words (50%)
Annotated Bibliography 2500-3000 words (50%)
Reassessment:
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The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages.
Critically discuss the main theoretical schools to have affected social anthropology in the course of the twentieth century.
Demonstrate a critical and in-depth understanding of the relationship between social anthropology and the disciplines from which it draws its theoretical sources including sociology, philosophy, political economy, and psychoanalytic theory.
Apply knowledge of the ways in which social anthropologists have approached the theoretical ideas in relationship to their ethnographic writings.
Analyse critically theoretical positions concerning the nature of human society and social relations, locating them in the appropriate intellectual schools of thought from which they originate.
Construct coherent and logical arguments, particularly in written form, which combine theoretical writings with the discussion of ethnographic data.
Demonstrate added confidence and competence in analytical skills.
Demonstrate heightened ability to express themselves via a variety of methods.
Demonstrate research skills of their own with which to identify and locate appropriate sources.
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