Sense of Place

Designed as an invitation to explore Anthropology through the theme of placemaking, this course emphasizes the making and un-making of place. The idea of "edgelands" inspires this course design as we explore the spaces beyond economically dynamic areas. Often represented as places outside development and progress, edgelands may once have been the center of an industry. What is the relationship of contemporary cities to these zones of difference? The course readings draw inspiration from dialogues among anthropologists, geographers, environmental humanists, and others whose works detail the changing nature of places, economies, and environments.