Cultural Anthropology — CRN 11965 (Sect 01B)
Instructor: R.B. “Bob” Chamberlain ▪ ThD, Trinity Graduate School of Theology, 2003; ▪ PhD, Union Institute & University, 1999; ▪ Post-Graduate (Ergonomics), Northeastern University, 1981-1982; ▪ MS (Computer Science), Northeastern University, 1980; ▪ Secondary Education Certificate, Salem State University, 1972; ▪ BS (Electrical Engineering), Northeastern University, 1970
Professional: RAI (Royal Anthropological Institute) AAA (American Anthropological Association) SfAA (Society for Applied Anthropology) AAR (American Academy of Religion) e-Mail: ChamberlainR@brevardcc.edu
Classes: Mon & Wed 10:50 AM – 12:05 PM Bldg 3 / Room 202
Office Hrs: Mon – Thur 12:05 – 12:35 PM Bldg 3 / Room 202
Emergency: (321) 433-5245 (Admin – Lynne – in case someone needs to reach you in an emergency)
Course Description
ANT 2410 is an introduction to the various customs and patterns of the cultural life of humanity — typically, that which is learned. In addition to covering topics such as language, economics, domestic life, reproduction, kinship, law & order, class, ethnicity, race, gender, religion and art, the course will explore Applied Anthropology. This is often treated as a separate branch of anthropology, and will deal with how what we learn can be (and is) applied to the “real world”. In this arena, the topics will include: commercial globalization, cultural sustainability, NGOs (non-government organizations), SGOs (supra-government organizations), and cross-cultural conflict resolution and negotiation..
General Course Objectives o determine the nature of “culture” and how it varies across the world; o develop a sensitivity to the varied cultural norms and their local validity; and, o learn ways to apply this sensitivity to make the world a safer, more harmonious, and more productive world.
Required Text o Chamberlain, Robert B. (2010) An Introduction to Cultural Anthropology (2nd Edition). Published by BCC Printing Services; available at the campus bookstore.
You are expected to purchase the text (no, I get nothing from the sale), to make use of the college and civic libraries, and to avail yourself of computer / internet resources.
Regular use of Angel, the BCC on-line course delivery system, is mandatory.
Objective
The primary objective of this course is to help you gain a greater understanding of the diversity of the world in which you live. Much of the world frequently does things in ways that are different from your own — some of which may seem quite strange. You may not be “wrong”; but, neither are they. Any public indication of disapproval or ridicule at any point during this class will merit disciplinary action on my part. This ranges from loss of points in the grading up to expulsion with an F. The severity of the penalty will depend on the severity of the infraction — in my sole opinion.
Grading
Your grade will be based on the successful completion of two tests, as well as participation in a variety of activities. At times, you may have concerns or disagreement regarding a grade; this can happen, and I don’t want you to passively ‘let it slide’ — discuss it with me. Arrange for a discussion or meeting; send an e-Mail; or, visit me during my open office hours. Grades will be kept current on Angel for your review.
Your final grade will be composed of the following elements: o Mid-Term Examination (40 points) o Final Examination (60 points) o Attendance (50 points) o Class Activities [Labs] (25 points) o Course Project (25 points)
This provides a total possible score of 200 points for the course. Grading will be assigned as: o A 180 pts or more o B 160–179 pts o C 140–159 pts o D