Reading and composition courses based on the anthropological literature. These courses provide an introduction to issues distinctive of anthropological texts and introduce students to distinctive forms of anthropological writing, such as ethnography and anthropological prehistory. Readings will be chosen from a variety of texts by authors whose works span the discipline, from bioanthropology to archaeology and sociocultural anthropology. Satisfies the second half of the Reading and Composition requirement.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, we have witnessed a nascent decolonial movement emerging in Russia’s predominantly Indigenous periphery, which has been disproportionately affected by the imperialist and racist war machine. While this historic moment is unprecedented, the plight of Indigenous Siberians is neither unique nor new. Calls for decolonization—the return of stolen lands and the recognition of sovereignty—are echoing from Indigenous communities worldwide. In this course, we will explore the historical context that has shaped Indigenous communities today, the available pathways to decolonization, and the lessons that can be drawn from Indigenous decolonial struggles globally. To this end, first, we will examine questions of Indigenous sovereignty, settler colonialism, land rights, social change, natural resource development, and human-environmental relations. We will draw on historical and ethnographic works and cultural productions from Russia, North and South America, and Australia. Next, we will put these specific histories in conversation with broader theoretical debates in Indigenous studies that respond to the continued colonial oppression of native people worldwide.

Repeat Rules

Course is not repeatable for credit.

Requirements class fulfills