This module introduces some of the main theoretical approaches and some practical applications of the study of environmental anthropology (in particular, cultural ecology, systems and symbolic ecology, historical and political ecology, and new approaches such as spiritual ecology and multispecies ethnography). It considers some of the main cultural and social aspects of the human-environment interface, such as the relationship between social organisation, culture and ecology; alternative forms of land use and management; the impact of processes of globalization on human interactions with the environment in a number of non-western societies; and the cultural dimension of human adaptation to a changing environment. These issues may involve great debates in theory, problems of methodology or issues in applying research results to solve practical problems. Throughout the module we address methods and problems of applying research in environmental anthropology to related development, conservation, climate change and human rights issues.
Private Study: 176
Contact Hours: 24
Total: 200
Compulsory for:
MSc Ethnobotany
Not available as an optional module.
Class quiz: 30%
Presentation: 10%
Essay (3000 words): 60 %
Reassessment Details:
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Identify historical theoretical and applied problems in environmental anthropology.
Discuss critically the themes, debates, and trends in environmental anthropology.
Discuss critically a range of classic ethnographic case studies.
Demonstrate independent critical analysis and thinking.
Demonstrate the ability to link theory and practice in academic and non-academic contexts.
Demonstrate reflective evaluation of case studies within a multidisciplinary framework.
Demonstrate advanced research skills in key subject areas.
Express ideas via a variety of methods.
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