ANTH10001: Final essay (argumentative essay)

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ANTH10001: Final essay (argumentative essay)

Length: 1,500 words

Due: 5 June 2024

Marking rubric: ANTH10001 Marking Rubric for Assessment 3 Argumentative Essay.docx (https://canvas.lms.unimelb.edu.au/courses/191774/files/19362324?wrap=1)

For your first essay, we asked you to do a ‘critical review’ of a single primary text. For your second, we asked you to practice doing anthropology by conducting an ethnographic observation and then putting it in conversation with one of the major sub-fields of anthropology. For this third and final assignment, the task is to develop an original argument vis-a-vis one of the statements listed below. This will allow you to consolidate your learning by using ethnographic evidence to develop an original position on a pressing global debate.

Please pick one of the statements listed below and argue for it, against it, or some combination of both. The aim is to draw closely on ethnographic evidence from different places in the world to develop a carefully grounded position vis-a-vis one of these statements. You can critique the assumptions behind the statement; demonstrate that it might apply in some places or contexts, but not others; challenge the way it is framed, etc. Again, the aim is to take a clear position by drawing on a diversity of ethnographic evidence.

Statements:

Capitalism is a system defined primarily by commodity exchange. In capitalist societies, gift exchange plays an increasingly less prominent role in the maintenance of social relations.

Western science has the most sophisticated understandings of the natural world. Different cultures may have different cultural beliefs about rivers, mountains, and other natural entities, but those are just that – beliefs.

While it may be true that witchcraft can help to ‘explain unfortunate events,’ it is far more important in the contemporary period for anthropologists to actively work to combat witchcraft accusations and challenge gender inequalities.

Anthropologists should not advocate for the recognition of certain cultural practices as human rights violations because to do so is to violate their commitment to cultural relativism.

While there are certainly parallels between the historical fascism of the 20 century and some of the dynamics we see in cultures around the world today, it is a dangerous exaggeration to say that ‘fascism’ is on the rise.

Structural violence is pervasive in the world-system today and one of the most effective ways of addressing it is through the payment of reparations.

While colonialism undoubtedly played a significant role in generating the emissions that continue to drive climate change, given the speed at which emissions must be stabilized and reduced, the focus of climate negotiations should not be on addressing colonialism.

Anthropology has its roots in the European colonial project. Despite all efforts to ‘decolonize’ the canon, anthropology – like the Western academy more broadly – remains rooted in colonial assumptions and practices from which it struggles to distance itself.

In responding, you should plan to use 5-7 required, recommended, or outside readings. These can be readings from the subject guide, introduced in the lecture, or included in the bibliographies of the required readings. You are also free to consult outside sources, but please note that they must be from peer-reviewed anthropology journals or reputable book publishers. If you have any questions about whether the sources you’ve chosen fit this category, please check with your tutor.

You should structure your essay as follows:

First, within the first paragraph, clearly outline what you’ll be arguing and provide a brief overview of the key points you’ll be making in the following paragraphs. Remember that one of the most important aspects of any essay is a clear articulation of the central argument. Then, carefully develop those points in relation to the texts that you’re using to support your argument. Here, try to be as concrete and detailed as possible by drawing our attention to ethnographic data. Finally, summarise your argument and, if you like, suggest any limitations to your argument or future lines of research that might be worth pursuing.

Tip:

We strongly encourage you do your own research. However, your answers must also refer very significantly to material covered in the subject and include clear reference to subject readings and ethnographic examples.

Purpose:

The purpose of this assignment is to understand, critique, and apply anthropological ideas to advance a clear and original position.