ANTHROPOLOGY OF CAPITALISM*

概要

This new course is a 300-level anthropology course. It will explore anthropological approaches to understand the past, present and future of capitalism. Anthropologists over generations have been inspired by theorists that regard capitalism as not only an economic form but as a product of history that is embedded in relations of power, cultural mediations, and ecological dynamics. Aware of the discipline’s own legacy of complicity in global inequities, anthropologists have also devised frameworks of critical intervention. The course is designed to give students the opportunity to (1) learn about classic social theory on modern capitalism, and (2) apply these theoretical insights to contemporary society through ethnographic projects and recent readings in anthropology. This advanced seminar examines capitalism from an anthropological approach. The course will cover key social theories of capitalism, including Marx, Weber, and Mauss. We will critically explore money and the commodity form, media and technology, and the institutions and practices that generate social inequities, ensure environmental ruin, and rewire the connection between our hearts, minds, and bodies.

目標

This course will aim to 1) introduce students to classic and contemporary social theory concerning capitalism 2) help students think critically about the world we live in by having students develop research questions 3) nurture analytical skills that will enable students to critically assess one's work and that of others

授業外の学習

【Preparation】(Time required: approx. 90 minutes for each session). ・Check the syllabus and Moodle to see upcoming topics and assignments. ・Review your lecture notes and summarize the content of the class discussions as well as review the provided textbook. ・Read the assigned class materials and take notes on the readings. ・Prepare for class discussion by generating questions to be addressed in class. 【Assignments】(Time required: approx. 100 minutes for each session). ・Work on assignments announced in class and on Moodle ・Engage in individual and group research.

所要時間: 190 minutes.