ANTH - Anthropology

An introduction to the basic concepts and findings of anthropology's four major subdivisions: physical anthropology, archaeology, linguistics, and cultural anthropology. Traces human biological and cultural evolution. Discusses and analyzes various cultural systems.

Anthropological view of human origins, the primate fossil record, biological aspects of humanity, non-human primates, human biological diversity, and the interplay between culture and biology.

Survey of archaeology, including major theories and methods. Emphasis upon interpretation of major findings, both prehistoric and historic.

The acquisition, nature, and impact of culture. An examination and comparison of a variety of cultural systems.

Description and analysis of sex and gender roles and relationships from a variety of societies at different levels of socio-cultural complexity. Note: Also listed as SOC 306 and WOST 302.

Explores the impact of disease on human populations in terms of demographic, cultural and social changes. The rise of health care delivery systems as a response to epidemics. Examples include the bubonic plague of the 14th and 17th centuries, cholera, influenza, polio and AIDS. Note: Also listed as SOC 312.

Survey of various belief systems. Topics include: cults, sacred beings, rituals, shamanism, witchcraft, and magic.

Survey of past and present Amerindian peoples and cultures of North America. Both aboriginal cultures and responses to European presence are emphasized for each region.

Survey course dealing with evolution of culture in Africa. Examination of range of variation of traditional African cultures and factors currently modifying them.

Survey of the prehistory, history, and present day nature of the various cultures of the Caribbean region. Special emphasis placed upon: economic life, family patterns, political movements, and expressive culture.

An examination of the background conditions producing utopias and an ethnographic/historical analysis of selected utopian ventures (e.g. Amish, Shakers, Counterculture Communes).

This course offers a critical look at the role of foodways in human prehistory, history, and contemporary life. Food is examined as an integral part of culture in terms of creating social bonds, identity, economies, and political systems. These issues are explored through diverse topics such as gender, food taboos, ethnicity, industrialization, human health, and the environment. The course includes discussion of attempts to address problems related to food by looking at policy, technologies, and movements towards sustainable food systems.

Special topics in anthropology not covered in detail by regular courses. Topic announced in online Course Offerings.

Reading and research course intended primarily for upper-level students. Deals with specialized concerns not covered in regular courses. Permission of instructor.

Supervised placement in a museum. Allows a limited number of advanced anthropology students to work with museum staff members on research, curation, and education projects. Permission of department.