Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit explores the emergence of diverse 'modern' ways of life cross-culturally, especially as these stem from the varied contexts of indigenous peoples' encounters with forms of colonial power. Starting from a critique of the notion of 'unchanging' tradition, the focus is on the differing agendas and cultural processes which shaped relations between local peoples and colonial agents intent on re-constituting aspects of their social and cultural life.

Objectives

On completion of this subject students should be able to:

1. Analyse socio-cultural aspects of emergent modernities in selected ethnographic settings around the globe.

2. Demonstrate a knowledge of recent trends in the anthropological and sociological literature on colonial cultures and differing forms of modernity.

3. Critique unduly dichotomous accounts of colonial/pre-colonial and Western/non-Western social formations.

Assessment

Written work: 60%
Test: 20%
Oral presentation: 10%
Class participation: 10%

Contact hours

2 hours (1 x 1 hour lecture and 1 x 1 hour tutorial) per week

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Anthropology

Prerequisites

A first-year sequence in Anthropology or History or Politics or Sociology or a cognate discipline or by permission

Prohibitions

COS2530/ANY3530/COS3530