Introduction to Social Anthropology

The course provides an introduction to central themes, modes of analysis and methods (such as fieldwork and participant observation) in Social Anthropology. It gives an introduction to the discipline’s key concepts and discusses the usefulness of such concepts including culture, holism, relativism and comparison. It also includes the history of the discipline, and gives an overview of the theoretical complexity, current discussions and present challenges of the discipline. The course is compulsory for all BA and One-Year Programme students in Social Anthropology.

To develop basic knowledge of Social Anthropological approaches to social life and cultural variation. The students shall acquire an understanding of the discipline’s hallmarks, ways of thinking, and obtain knowledge of the important themes and approaches in Social Anthropology. They shall also gain insight into the methods used in the discipline. The course gives a basic insight and an initial introduction for students who aim to do either a BA or a One-Year Programme in Social Anthropology. It also gives an introduction and overview to students from other disciplines, who are interested in Social Anthropology as a minor subject. Additionally, the obligatory written exercise will develop the student’s skills in academic writing.

Approx. 24 hours lectures/seminars and approved written assignment. Deadline written assignment: October 31st.