Poslední úprava: JOSIFKO (09.01.2008)
History of Social Theory:
The course offers a view of the origins and development of modern social theory, with the emphasis
on the significance of classic and more recent theoretical debate for the practice of social, cultural and historical anthropology today. Its aim is both to familiarise students with the theoretical foundations of the study of social phenomena and to encourage them to recognise and deploy social theory in their specialist fields in a practical and critical spirit. The course falls into three parts:
1. The emergence of key concepts of society, social progress and social analysis in the Enlightenment and earlier 19th century. Montesquieu, the Scottish Enlightenment, the impact of the French Revolution.
2. Classic modern theories and debates. Positivism (Comte, Spencer, Marx) and its critics (Durkheim, theorists
of social action, Weber); Marxist theories of class, domination and ideology; functionalism (Parsons) versus structuralism (Levi Strauss, Douglas). Their effects in social history and anthropology.
3. More recent developments, (post-structuralism, Foucault, Bourdieu, civilisation theory, gender theory ).
Students will be encouraged to discuss the uses and limits of current theories for study of particular issues,
e.g. ethnic identity and conflict, post-communist social transformation, historical projects).
A more detailed syllabus stating the theme for each lecture seminar will be supplied, together with a reading list and photocopied extracts from the literature, but especially since this is the first time that the course is being held, students should note that it is experimental and can be modified depending on student interests and suggestions.
The lecture-seminars will usually consist of one hours informal lecture followed by one hour of discussion. Each week two or more students will be asked to prepare five-minute contributions on particular texts or issues for the discussion.
