Introduction to Cultural Anthropology

This course is an introduction to the field of cultural anthropology. Anthropology is the study of humanity, past and present, but it is also a set of tools and a way of knowing that helps us make sense of the world. Cultivating an anthropological perspective means developing a sense of curiosity about how cultures came to be, what the meaning, benefits and consequences of particular cultural beliefs and practices are, and what alternatives exist. Studying anthropology helps us begin to see that there is no one way to be human and that one of the great strengths of humanity is our ability to adapt.