Anthropology and Humanitarian Action 3102-FAHA
What are the cultural contexts, political and economic entanglements, and ethical dilemmas of humanitarian aid? What might be its unintended or unexamined effects? And what can an anthropological perspective contribute to addressing these questions? Through a mix of classic and more recent texts, this course explores the anthropology of humanitarian action as well as the prospects for using anthropology in humanitarian action. It covers topics that range from cultural relativism to structural violence; emergency intervention to international development; and forced migration to the global governance of health and disease. Students will be encouraged to develop a critical approach to the uses and abuses of ‘culture’, and to engage in an enquiry into the complexities of ‘doing good’.
Type of course
Learning outcomes
The student learns about anthropological approaches to the issues of humanitarianism and humanitarian aid, as well as the possibilities of practical application of knowledge and research methods of anthropology in humanitarian activities. In addition, the student is able to develop critical reflection on the political contexts and implications of humanitarianism and 'development aid'.
Assessment criteria
Main: Written essay on a freely chosen topic relevant to the course (max. 3,000 words, details TBA);
Additional: Oral presentation; attendance; class activity.
Bibliography
see the current semester syllabus
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: