Sociology, Philosophy and Anthropology
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Postgraduate Module Descriptor

ANTM102: Anthrozoology: Theory and Method

This module descriptor refers to the 2021/2 academic year.

Module Aims

This module aims to:

  • introduce students from a diverse range of disciplinary and professional backgrounds to ‘anthrozoology’ (the study of human-animal interactions) from an anthropological perspective
  • to provide you with the theoretical grounding needed to engage in critical analysis of contemporary and historical examples of human-animal interactions in a range of cultural contexts.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

This module's assessment will evaluate your achievement of the ILOs listed here - you will see reference to these ILO numbers in the details of the assessment for this module.
On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:
Module-Specific Skills1. show a detailed engagement with a wide range of human interactions with other animals in a range of cultural contexts;
2. critically discuss the implications of human interactions with other animals in a range of cultural contexts;
3. show a detailed understanding of the development of theoretical ideas relating to human interactions with other animals within the social and natural sciences;
4. show a critical appreciation of the ways in which perceptions about animals are formed and develop;
5. demonstrate a reflexive ability to engage with the cultural practices and personal beliefs of others in a sensitive manner;
Discipline-Specific Skills6. demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the ways in which human interactions with other animals relate to the anthropological endeavour;
7. critically assess and engage with some of the key debates from anthropology and a range of cognate disciplines surrounding human-animal interactions;
8. evaluate the anthropological prioritising of the human animal and the nature of classificatory systems utilised by anthropologists to facilitate this process;
9. make reflexive, theoretically informed cross-cultural comparisons;
Personal and Key Skills10. demonstrate critical synoptic skills and the confidence to theoretically challenge hegemonic ideas relating to inter-species relationships;
11. Express complex ideas in a clear, coherent and reflexive manner; and
12. engage in productive group discussions and provide constructive feedback to peers.