Course content

Many of the most urgent issues in the world of today are rooted in unequal access to resources. In this course, we focus on inequality in “The Global South”, especially Africa, within a context of international and comparative perspectives. You will learn about current social issues relating to various forms of inequality, approached through anthropological theory and empirical studies. The topics selected are linked to ongoing research at the Department. Examples include issues relating to modernisation, urbanisation, gender and rights, ethnicity, climate and environment, the challenges faced by smallholders, and governance. The topics we teach will vary over time.

Learning outcome

When you have completed this course, you can describe theories about livelihoods and inequalities in “The Global South”, assess theories based on empirical studies, and choose theory strategically to analyse a current issue. You will have developed skills in literature search and can make a reading list for a current issue. You can present your findings orally and in writing. Furthermore, you will have developed consciousness about the social and political significance of inequality for the affected people and for our global community, you can see inequality from the point of view of the weak, and you want to contribute to knowledge and to change.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and seminars. You will be assigned literature for brief presentation in the seminars. In addition, the students as a group will jointly select and develop a new topic. Under the guidance of staff, the students will search for relevant literature and present the findings to each other for final selection for the reading list.

SANT2020, SANT2021, SANT2024, AFR2120 og SANT3508: Minimum one 15 credits will be offered in the spring semester. Which course/s that is offered will be announced at the beginning of the spring semester. The announcement will be made at the Department and on the Department's web page.

Compulsory assignments

• Muntlig presentasjon av litteraturrapporter i seminar

Recommended previous knowledge

SANT1020, SANT1021, SANT1022 and SANT1023 or AFR1012, SANT1000, SANT1001, SANT1002 and SANT1103

Required previous knowledge

None

Course materials

See reading list available at the beginning of the semester