SDC-21804 Introduction to the Sociology of Knowledge and Development M

Course

Credits 4.00

Language of instruction:

English

Continuation courses:

A variety of MSc-level courses taught by RDS.

Contents:

The aims of this course are to introduce students to i) theoretical ideas of development; and ii) a social analysis of development processes. It is oriented around anthropological views of development concerns, concepts and theories. These aims will be carried out by focusing on social change and development issues. The unity of the course arises from the way an introduction to theoretical issues is underpinned by a series of crosscutting themes and is linked to current issues in the field of development studies. Anthropology is located as part of a body of knowledge very much influenced by the need to understand the problems we encounter in the world. In this vein, ideas and practice in development are connected to the domain of social science. After a brief introduction to issues of knowledge and social analysis, the course will proceed to introduce students to a set of challenging social themes. These themes are illustrated and explored with reference to current interests in development studies. The course will help students to reflect and learn lessons, which could improve our existing research and development practices, dissolving the artificial divide between pure social science and down-to-earth development practice.

Learning outcomes:

After successful completion of this course students are expected to be able to:
- understand and apply knowledge of sociological/anthropological theories of development;
- analyse and apply theoretical concepts in relation to social and environmental change;
- critically evaluate development policies from a social/anthropological perspective;
- understand the role of knowledge in rural innovation processes.

Activities:

- interactive lectures;
- essay writing;
- discussion of knowledge and development issues, reflecting on films.

Examination:

- written exam (80 %);
- essay (20%).

Literature:

A reader will be available at MyPortal.