The Study of Culture through Language (215-0-1)

Instructors

Doris S. Warriner

Meeting Info

University Hall 122: Tues, Thurs 11:00AM - 12:20PM

Overview of class

From language socialization and storytelling to multilingualism and language ideologies, communication performs as social action to influence dynamics of power, agency, representation, and identity. This course offers an introduction to the anthropological investigation of language, culture and society. We will read and discuss ethnographic studies of language and communication conducted in different social and cultural settings; and we will consider questions such as: What is the relationship between language, culture, and individual thought? How do historical and contemporary social phenomena shape language and communication practices? How do anthropologists and linguistic anthropologists come to know what they know? One goal of the course is to understand how theories and research from anthropology can help elucidate contemporary social issues, social problems, and/or ethical dilemmas in the US and abroad, as well as inform potential solutions to such issues and problems. Another goal of the course is to develop the ability to critique theories, claims, and policy from anthropology's global approach, evaluating an argument's major assertions and assumptions based on its evidence and utility. In addition, students will acquire the ability to apply key theoretical concepts from the field of linguistic anthropology to their original analysis of cross-cultural examples (e.g., from educational settings, policy statements, social media, and everyday interaction). Topics covered include language and community, language socialization, language standardization, language revitalization, language and identity, language ideology, language and colonialism, and linguistic discrimination. Major assignments include weekly readings, weekly discussions, a take-home midterm essay exam, and a research paper.

Learning Objectives

Examine the role of communication, across cultural contexts. 2. Understand how anthropologists examine language and communication ethnographically. 3. Identify real-world instances of language and communication and analyze them drawing on course concepts or themes. 4. Understand how theories and research from anthropology can help elucidate the contemporary social issues and social problems in the US and abroad, as well as inform potential solutions to such issues and problems.

Class Materials (Required)

Required texts (available via the university bookstore or a vendor of your choice) Davis, J. (2018). Talking Indian: Identity and Language Revitalization in the Chickasaw Renaissance. University of Arizona Press. ISBN: 9780816540969 (paperback) | Ebook ISBN: 9780816538157 (ebook) Delfino, J. B. (2020). Speaking of race: Language, identity, and schooling among African American children. Lexington books. 202 pages. ISBN (electronic): 9781793606495. ISBN (print): 9781793606488 / 9781793606501 Other required readings are available via Canvas.

Class Attributes

Social and Behavioral Science Foundational Discipl
Global Perspectives on Power, Justice, and Equity

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Reserved for Anthropology majors and minors until the end of preregistration, after which time enrollment will be open to everyone who has taken the prerequisites.

Associated Classes

DIS - Annenberg Hall G28: Mon 11:00AM - 11:50AM

DIS - University Hall 112: Tues 10:00AM - 10:50AM

DIS - University Hall 118: Thurs 10:00AM - 10:50AM

DIS - Harris Hall L05: Fri 10:00AM - 10:50AM