Social Anthropology: A Journey Through the Lifecycle

Pre-requisites for enrolment

No prior knowledge is required.

Content of Course

This course begins with an introduction to the phases of the human life cycle and an overview of anthropological approaches to these. We draw on research from Amazonia, Africa, India and Europe to look at how bodily transitions are made in different societies. Key topical areas in anthropology such as gender, personhood, kinship or ritual will also be used to examine the making of the person. Throughout the course, you will explore what it means to be human though the comparative study of cultures and societies. This course uses material from a 20-week Social Anthropology course previously offered by the Centre for Open Learning.

Teaching method(s)

Each session will combine lecture and tutorial discussion. You will be introduced to key debates and methods within social anthropology and encouraged to reflect on the literature through the lenses of your own experience. Practical tasks and group discussions will enable you to expand and refine your understanding of key concepts, debates and case studies. Feedback provided during class will enhance students’ ability to draw comparisons and contrasts between your own and other societies.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this course, you will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of key anthropological concepts and debates.
2. Employ critical, analytical and reflective skills in understanding one’s own culture and that of other societies.
3. Demonstrate an awareness of how an anthropological approach can be beneficial in developing an informed and critical understanding of the contemporary world.
4. Critically assess ethnographic evidence.

Sources

Core Readings

Recommended:

• Eriksen, T. H., 2001. Small Places, Large Issues. London: Pluto Press.

Queries

If you have questions regarding the course or enrolment, please contact COL Reception at Paterson's Land by email COL@ed.ac.uk or by phone 0131 650 4400.

Student support

If you have a disability, learning difficulty or health condition which may affect your studies, please let us know by ticking the 'specific support needs' box on your course application form. This will allow us to make appropriate adjustments in advance and in accordance with your rights under the Equality Act 2010. For more information please visit the Student Support section of our website.