121-058 Sentiments and Structures

The subject is concerned with the comparative study of kinship and family in Western and non-Western societies, considering them as both forms of social structure and primary sites of sentimental and affective states. Students who complete the subject should have an introductory knowledge of the variety of forms of kinship reckoning and family organisation to be found in the world today, and a general understanding of the variable relationship between kinship and family and the wider issues of social identity, gender roles, economic and political organisation and social structure.

• have practice in conducting research and speaking articulately;

• have practice in writing clearly in a variety of formats and reading with attention to detail;

• have experience of systematically evaluating a body of empirical data and identifying its theoretical context;

• have experience of methods of critical inquiry and argument leading to improved analytical skills;

• have acquired awareness of issues relating to cross-cultural communication.

A research essay of 2250 words 50% (due at the end of semester), a class test of 750 words 25% (due late in the semester), a genealogy of 500 words 10% (due late in the semester), a tutorial presentation and paper no longer than 500 words 15% (due during the semester and no later than one week after the oral presentation).

A subject reader will be available from the Bookroom at the beginning of semester