Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit examines the dynamics of power, governance and resistance by adopting anthropological and interdisciplinary approaches to studying society, law, and politics. Students examine various topics and case studies in Australia and internationally to explore the culture of public problems, the politics of influence, and the discursive construction of power relationships. Students will also examine the broader politics of influence, ranging from the power of think tanks and philanthropic organisations in seeking to steer the direction of policy and legislation, through to case-studies of citizen resistance movements.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 2 core unit in the Anthropology major sequence
  • Level 2 option in the Criminology and Criminal Justice major sequence
  • Level 2 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate an understanding of key theories and concepts relating to the study of society, politics and law, and interrelationships between these realms; (2) demonstrate knowledge of major debates in anthropology and how these relate to contemporary and recent historical case-studies of legislation, policy, and politics; (3) synthesise and critically review anthropological research literature relating to the interrelated dynamics of society, law and politics; (4) formulate, investigate, and discuss anthropologically informed research questions and develop arguments based on a critical evaluation of evidence.; and (5) communicate anthropological ideas and knowledge using a range of formats (e.g. written, oral, and visual).

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) tutorial activities; (2) research proposal; and (3) formal report. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Adam Keen
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Successful completion of
level 1 24 points Unit(s)
Contact hours
Workshops: 12 x 3 hrs
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.