This course traces a series of conversations in theory and method in anthropology from a broadly thematic perspective. It provides students with a foundation for situating contemporary anthropology and its many theoretical approaches and debates by tracing the field's historical development. It examines the social context in which various "paradigms" took hold and the extent that they gained traction, were critiqued and discredited, or were reconfigured and reinvigorated. We will explore the development of contemporary theory as internal to the discipline and as a response to changing intellectual climates and social milieus. Our discussions will be aimed at identifying both shifts and continuities in the thematic foci, methodological stance, and guiding concerns of the discipline.

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 15

Prerequisites: ANTH 101 and at least one 200 level ANTH course, or permission of the instructor.

Distribution Requirements: SBA - Social and Behavioral Analysis

Typical Periods Offered: Fall and Spring

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Fall; Spring

Notes: