Theories and contemporary issues relating to development and underdevelopment, with a critical emphasis on the Pacific.
This postgraduate paper is an advanced study of South Pacific societies. It also offers a critical examination of development from an anthropological perspective. ANTH 416 addresses development in a broad and inclusive sense and critically studies theoretical and ethnographic literature. It shows how anthropology can be applied to the real world to address the complex problems cultures face, especially inequalities and human insecurity. Specific topics may include indigenous knowledges, gender, representation, health, environmental issues, aid, human security, democracy, human rights and the politics and discourse of development. You will gain insight into the complexities of development from staff who have direct experience and research with Pacific societies. You will also be guided to develop your own research skills, gain confidence in group presentations and discussion and to take a critical approach to your data. In recent years, development agencies and employers have recognised the value of an anthropological training. This is an excellent paper for future employment as you can demonstrate an advanced understanding of Pacific cultures, development issues and of cultural diversity. It will also prepare you for further postgraduate research.
| Paper title | Anthropology and Development |
|---|---|
| Paper code | ANTH416 |
| Subject | Anthropology |
| EFTS | 0.1667 |
| Points | 20 points |
| Teaching period | Not offered in 2018, expected to be offered in 2020 |
| Domestic Tuition Fees (NZD) | $1,098.05 |
| International Tuition Fees (NZD) | $4,352.87 |
- Prerequisite
- 72 300-level ANTH points
- Eligibility
- Suitable for postgraduate students in social anthropology (and also for some archaeology students). Humanities postgraduate students from a cognate discipline or with a limited background in anthropology or may take this paper with the approval of the course coordinator.
- Contact
- anthropology@otago.ac.nz
- More information link
- Contact jacqui.leckie@otago.ac.nz for
the most up-to-date full course outline and readings.
View more information on Social Anthropology - Teaching staff
- Co-ordinator: Jacqueline Leckie
- Paper Structure
- The paper covers three key themes to:
- Critically examine theories and ethnographies of anthropology and development
- Examine contemporary development issues in South Pacific societies from an anthropological perspective
- Critically explore development in an insecure and gendered world
This course is supported by Blackboard. - Teaching Arrangements
- One 2-hour seminar per week with a high level of student participation. This is a year long course.
- Textbooks
- Key Readings are on e-reserve. There is no text book.
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Cultural understanding, Ethics, Research.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
- Critical understanding of theoretical debates and methodological issues in anthropology and development
- Knowledge of contemporary development and security issues in the South Pacific from an anthropological perspective
- To gain confidence and experience in initiating, completing and presenting independent research in oral and written forms
- A good pass grade in ANTH 416; preparation for thesis research; application of anthropology in future employment
