| Part II | Convenor: Dr Paul Anderson |
Course Description 2024-25
This paper explores critical anthropological approaches to the study of economy and culture. We will consider how an anthropological perspective can contribute to, and problematize, the study of economic and cultural life.
We will review anthropological theories of economic life, and address in more detail themes such as the relationship between religious and economic transformations in the Middle East and wider Muslim world in the 20th and 21st centuries, and anthropological approaches to cultural production, consumption, tourism and the city. Then, in Lent Term, students write an extended essay with support from a supervisor. The main regional focus will be on the Middle East but the themes will also be studied comparatively, drawing on ethnographic accounts from other parts of the world. The aims of the course are to enable students to analyze the relations between economy, religion and culture from an anthropological perspective and understand their connection to social and political changes. The course is also intended to develop students' skills in written and oral communication, analysis, and critical thinking.
Form and Conduct
This paper is assessed by a research essay of 5000 words, including footnotes and excluding bibliography, relating to a topic taught on the course and using anthropological sources and approaches as taught on the course. A two-page topic and paper outline will be due by 5pm on Monday, LT week 0, and should be sent to psa27@cam.ac.uk. Two hard copies and one electronic copy (pdf) of the project shall be submitted to the Programmes Administrator in the Faculty Office so as to arrive not later than the fourth Friday of Full Easter Term.
This description is subject to change, for the latest information, students should consult the Undergraduate Handbook available on the Faculty Intranet.