Anthropological Theory

Catalog description

Credits 3. 3 Lecture Hours. COURSE OVERVIEW. Surveys the history and foundations of anthropological theory, connecting these historical concepts to contemporary professional concerns. Critiques the core assumptions, preferred questions and specific methods associated with major theoretical schools. Engages diverse points of view to examine current social issues and applied problems, fostering respect for cultural and human biological diversity. Develops comprehensive expertise in articulating theoretical explanations for research questions, identifying the major theorist(s) credited for theory development and detailing how theory is currently used by anthropologists. Practices critical synthesis of theoretical knowledge within existing disciplinary frameworks. Evaluates arguments by questioning the type and sufficiency of evidence presented. Assesses the cultural position, background and historical context of authors conveying messages, including whether the argument is shaped by a particular historical moment or if the author has an agenda. Requires active application of theoretical models against individual student areas of interest. TOPICS AND THEMES. Explores foundational classics; analyzes epistemology, axiology and related conceptual frameworks; considers the Nature/Nurture Debate; investigation of functional thinking, processes, structures and pragmatics; transformation and evolution; symbols and coherence; cultural materialism and economies; and critical advocacy, feminisms, Post Modernism, post-structuralism and the ontological turn. Prerequisite: ANTH 210 or ANTH 205 .