ANY1010 - Culture, Power, Difference: Indigeneity and Australian Identity

Leader: John Bradley

Offered

Clayton First semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

Anthropology is the study of the diversity of human expression through space and time, which not only focuses on differences and similarities between societies and cultures, but also on connections and contestations between them. This unit will explore these aspects through focussing on the ongoing relationship between Indigenous and Settler Australians. This unit explores points of contestation and how this has shaped the position of Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Australians in contemporary society. Key periods in Indigenous Australia are discussed and the way in which Anthropology has been involved in the process of understanding Indigenous relationships to each other and to the land.

Objectives

Students in this subject can expect to learn:

1. to formulate and critically evaluate concepts for understanding differences, similarities, connections and contestations between cultures,
2. to perceive the ways in which knowledge about cultural comparisons enables us to be critically aware of our own cultural practices;
3. to appreciate some of the important features of a number of Indigenous cultures in Australia;
4. to discuss some of the key contemporary issues which exist in the relationship between Indigenous and Non-Indigenous cultures in Australia and
5. to write clear and well-supported responses to various questions posed through exercises and essays.

Assessment

Tutorial Work (2000 words): 40%
Essay (2000 words): 40%
1 hour exam (500 words): 20%

Contact hours

3 hours (2 x 1 hour lectures and 1 x 1 hour tutorial) per week