Public Anthropology (ANTH*2180)

Code and section: ANTH*2180*01

Term: Winter 2025

Instructor: Travis Steffens

Details

Course Code and Title: ANTH*2180 Public Anthropology

Calendar Description:

This course explores approaches to public, engaged anthropology, and the application of anthropological theory and practice. Students will develop insights into the roles of anthropology and anthropological perspectives for diverse occupations, fields, and policies, and within contemporary public debates and discussions.

Detailed Course Description*:

This course explores approaches to public, engaged anthropology and the application of anthropological theory, knowledge, and methods for public issues, debates, and practice. As a field, anthropology has continued to evolve, with an increasing recognition of the importance of engaging with and contributing to public issues and policy and practice debates. Anthropologists engage in contemporary issues, and at times take a public position. In this course, we will explore public anthropological engagements in a range of areas, including health and wellbeing, forensic anthropology, social inclusion and exclusion, and policy issues, while also considering how to best translate anthropological knowledge to audiences outside of academia. We also consider how anthropologically-trained individuals apply their work to diverse employment opportunities and through policy. In discussing these issues, the course will help you think about the range of ways you can mobilize your anthropological training and degree. We will also evaluate the ethical positions that anthropologists take when applying their work in public arenas.

Students will be evaluated on the following*:

Participation

Quizzes

Written assignments

Final Exam

Requirements:

The required textbook for this course is

• Podjed et al. (EDS) 2021. Why the World Needs Anthropologists
• Additional readings will be assigned by the course instructor and made available electronically through the library.

 

* Subject to change. Final course outline will be provided to students at the beginning of the semester.

Syllabus