PLM4220

Abstract communities: from tribalism to globalism

(ART)

Proposed to be offered next in 2001

Paul James

12 points + 2 hours per week + Clayton

Synopsis: A study of structures and subjectivities that integrate polity and community, and threaten simultaneously to break them apart. Topics include electronic communication, monetary exchange and computerised production. The subject suggests that understanding contemporary forms of polity and community entails making broad historical comparisons to radically different ways of living in time, place and embodiment.

Assessment: Essay (6000 words): 60% + Examination (3 hours): 40%