121-107 Consuming Culture and Society

Students who have complete 121-107 Social Order Social Change are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Through a consideration of the structures and meanings of socio-cultural practices around the globe, this subject introduces some of the basic theoretical orientations that have informed anthropological research over the past century. Comparative ethnographic examples will illustrate a range of disciplinary concerns in anthropological research ethics and practice, the dynamic interaction between processes of order and change in social life, and its effects on how people experience the different worlds they inhabit. Important topics of interest include classification, feasting and exchange, and symbolic studies of ritual practice.

• have practice in conducting research, speaking and writing clearly and reading carefully;

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

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

• have practice working cooperatively in small groups.

An article review of 500 words 10% (due during semester), an ethnographic observation of 500-800 words 15% (due during semester), a 1-hour class test 25% (held in early October), and an essay of 2000 words 50% (due at the end of semester).

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