Anthropology

Understanding Contemporary India

Module code: L6057SID
Level 6
30 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Not yet finalised
Assessment modes: Not yet finalised

This module uses an anthropological lens to explore the processes of social, economic and political transformation currently animating everyday life in India.

We first review anthropological theories of caste, and explore experiences of caste from a Dalit perspective.

We then turn to marriage, followed by a focus on gender and gender-based violence in urban India.

The module subsequently addresses the rise of the Indian middle classes and the role of consumption in society. It also examines India’s informal economy and the role of the state in everyday life.

We conclude by looking at how digital technologies are transforming Indian society.

Module learning outcomes

• Demonstrate an awareness of key contemporary themes/debates in the anthropology of India
• Demonstrate an awareness of the contributions that anthropology makes to the understanding of contemporary social, economic and political relations in India
• Demonstrate an ability to relate contemporary issues of culture and society in India to anthropological analysis and theory
• Demonstrate an ability to critically read and assess accounts of society, economy and politics in Indian society
• Express adequate understanding of the above through written means, using theoretical and empirical data