Anthropology, Culture and Development

• Credit value: 30 credits at Level 7
• Convenor: Penny Vera-Sanso
• Assessment: two 4000-word learning journals (50% each)

In this module you will gain a solid understanding of anthropological theory and method, and will be able to critically evaluate the role and potential contribution of anthropology to development and development studies. It will enable you to hone your skills in critical, reflexive analysis and to critically evaluate development interventions and public discourse in a range of contexts.

You will also be able to apply your learning of anthropological theory and method to your option and dissertation modules.

Assessment is via a learning journal, in which you record your reading and thoughts about each topic, its links and tensions with the prior weeks' topics, and its relevance to development. A learning journal entry must be made for each topic taught. The purpose of this journal is to give you an opportunity to relate theory to policy, practice and research and to develop a reflexive approach to your learning, although we would encourage you to continue keeping a learning journal throughout your programme of study.

Indicative module CONTENT

• Anthropology and development on culture
• The history of anthropology
• Fieldwork and the politics of knowledge production
• Human universals and cultural relativism
• Tradition, shared culture and boundary making
• Practice theory, agency and structure
• Knowledge, power and governmentality
• Anthropology of emotion and the affective turn
• Anthropology: the ethical discipline?
• Anthropology of violence