Water Worlds: The Anthropology of Water

Catalog description

Dive into the fascinating world of cultural anthropology through the lens of one of the planet's most vital and elemental resources—water. In "Water Worlds," you will embark on a captivating journey through diverse cultures and their intricate relationships with water, from serene riverbanks to Oceania and arid desert oases. This course offers a unique opportunity to explore how societies across the globe shape and are shaped by water. We will examine the cultural, ecological, and socio-political dimensions of water use and management, and how they have transformed over time. By studying a wide range of case studies, ethnographic accounts, and interdisciplinary perspectives, you will gain a deep understanding of the complex interplay between human societies and the hydrosphere.