Monash University

Leader(s): Matt Tomlinson

Offered

Caulfield Second semester 2009 (Day)
Clayton Second semester 2009 (Day)

Synopsis

Many scholars understand indigeneity in terms of:

1. original relationships to particular lands
2. historical engagements with colonial or settler populations
3. distinct present-day cultural practices, ideologies and self-representations
4. embeddedness and appropriation of intangible heritage.

This unit explores indigeneity by focusing on its global emergence and future trajectories. Key topics may include land and treaties; law and translation; education; art and the appropriation and consumption of intellectual property; and religion and ritual. The unit contains modules on specific regions which may include Australia and NZ; the Pacific Islands; Asia; the Americas; and Africa.

Objectives

After successfully completing this unit at second-year level, students should be able to:

1. display knowledge of various definitions of indigeneity;
2. identify key debates in studies of indigeneity;
3. articulate broad connections between cultural identity and expression, history, land, and political power;
4. display an understanding of indigenous issues pertinent to thee specific cultural-geographical regions;

For students taking the unit at third-year level, there should be:

1. display knowledge of various definitions of indigeneity;
2. identify key debates in studies of indigeneity;
3. articulate broad connections between cultural identity and expression, history, land, and political power;
4. display an understanding of indigenous issues pertinent to thee specific cultural-geographical regions;

With the additional objective of:
5. write a brief (1500 words) but focused research paper on the global connections between disparate indigenous movements.

Students are expected to develop their abilities to:

1. use analytic and interpretive skills in dealing with social science accounts of diverse peoples;
2. read written sources and view visual materials critically;
3. assess preconceived ideas about what indigenous cultures are like;
4. present logical, coherent arguments in writing.

Assessment

Written work (4500 words): 90% +
Tutorial participation: 10%.

Contact hours

One 1-hour lecture and one 1-hour tutorial per week

Prerequisites

A first-year sequence in Anthropology, Australian Indigenous Studies, International Studies, Spanish & Latin American Studies, or a cognate discipline, or by permission

Prohibitions

INT2150