121-108 Varieties of Human Experience

An introduction to the anthropological perspective, this subject explores whether and how it is possible to understand and evaluate 'other cultures'. Drawing on data from a wide array of contexts, including Africa, Europe and Latin America, its focus is on different types of human relationship, national and ethnic relations, power relations, gender and sexual relations and relationships between humans and their natural environments. On completion of the subject students should have a general understanding of the social and cultural basis of human experience; a general familiarity with the range of world views documented in ethnographic literature; and a background of relevant ethnographic knowledge on which to base further anthropological studies.

• 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.

Written work totalling 2500 words comprising of a 2000 word essay 62.5% (due at the end of semester), a 500 word class paper 12.5% (due during semester) and a 1-hour class test 25% (due at the end of semester).

• E Evans-Pritchard, Witchcraft, Oracles and Magic among the Azande. (abridged ed), Clarendon Press, 1976.