Meeting Time: Monday and Wednesday - 8:30am-10:20am
Location: RAI 121
SLN: 10346
Course Description:
Anthropology of the Body studies perceptions, representations and beliefs concerning the body in human societies. The point of view is more so cultural, as opposed to biologic; however, there is acknowledgement of medical interventions, and technologies that impact how human bodies navigate society. To understand the cultural representations of the body allows us to better understand why certain bodies are stigmatized, emulated, and oppressed.
Anthropology of the Body explores questions such as how does culture shape the body? How are new medical technologies changing the ways in which people think about, talk about and inhabit their bodies? How can anthropological conversations such as culture, the interplay between biology and culture, and cross-cultural comparison enrich knowledge production about bodies and descriptions of embodiment?
Class Format
This class will be taught in person in Raitt 121, there is no asynchronous or remote option. From time-to-time students will be asked to sit with their assigned group presentation peers to have small group discussions and participate in the in class graded activities. I plan to present short lectures, and then have small group discussions and activities so it will be important for students to attend regularly and come prepared with discussion questions from the readings.
Assignments:
Reflection Papers - 45%
Small Group Presentation - 20%
In-Class Activities - 15%
Online Film Quizzes - 20%
Course Objectives:
- To expand students’ awareness of the human body as a culturally and historically situated object
- For students to become versed in some of the major theoretical approaches to Gender, Disability, and Race
- To expand students’ awareness of how an individual’s multiple identities and lived experiences shapes their perspective
- For students to work together in small groups to develop an in-depth understanding and assessment of readings and films
- To encourage critical thinking on a range of dilemmas posed by readings and films
- To encourage students to integrate issues of the body into their way of thinking—to take theory and put it into practice
Student Expectations
- Read the assigned texts prior to class.
- Come to class with discussion questions.
- Submit written assignments via Canvas by 11:59pm on the specific date.
- All assignments must be typed, 1.5 spaced, using either Times or Arial 12pt font.
- Actively participate in all group discussions and activities.
- Respect classmates’ ideas and opinions.