Time Schedule:
Laada M. Bilaniuk
ANTH 203
Seattle Campus
Linguistic methods and theories used within anthropology. Basic structural features of language; human language and animal communication compared; evidence for the innate nature of language. Language and culture: linguistic relativism, ethnography of communication, sociolinguistics. Language and nationalism, language politics in the United States and elsewhere. Offered: jointly with LING 203.
Class description
Language permeates our lives, and yet most of us take it for granted. The use of language, an activity that can seem so “natural” and effortless, is made possible by extremely complex neural, social and cultural processes. In this course we will consider language both as a universal human trait, and its diversity across cultures. What exactly is human language, and what makes it work? We will study the structures of language, and how a finite set of rules amazingly allows us to communicate infinite new ideas. We will consider language not just a means of communication, but as a means of creating and transforming identities, social relationships, and values. How do differences in language affect how we think and act? How do people do things with language, and how does this vary across cultures? Then we will consider how language differences are manipulated in institutionalizing inequality and discrimination. How is language implicated in struggles for power, and what is its role in the construction of nations, and racial and gender identities?
In exploring the answers to these questions, throughout the course we will consider various methodologies used for studying language in society. Students will have the opportunity to conduct linguistic anthropology research and analysis of their own. The goals of this course are to equip students with the background to think critically about the role of language in human life, how it is shaped by people, and how language shapes us in turn.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Recommended preparation
Class assignments and grading
Students will have the opportunity to conduct a linguistic anthropology research project of their own, to be written up in a final paper. Other requirements include participation in class and sections, and a midterm and final exam.
20% Class and Section participation (including quizzes) 25% Paper (6-page final paper based on student ethnographic research) 25% Midterm Exam 30% Final Exam
