Anthropology Minor

Anthropology emerged as a discipline during the 19th century that asked questions aimed at investigating the intricacies of societies and cultures across human history. In order to do this, anthropology developed in North America brings together concerns from the social sciences and humanities as well as the biological and physical sciences. This “four-field” approach began as the study of ‘distant’ and ‘exotic’ cultures and peoples; however, over the course of the 20th century anthropologists turned their investigations to people, practices, and institutions across the globe. By immersing themselves in the daily lives of people, by participating in and closely observing and listening to the lives and practices of others, anthropology has developed into a critical approach to appreciating difference no matter how far or near it might occur. Anthropology has studied and debated issues of race, ethnicity, language, religion, economics, kinship, power, class, gender, and sexuality. In more recent times, it has also come to embrace the study and critique of modern institutions like medicine, science, politics, trade, and law.

The minor in anthropology requires three core courses and three electives. Only the introductory course (ANTH 1001) may be transferred from another institution; the other two core courses in the minor must be taken at Georgetown. All electives must either originate in Anthropology or be taught by an anthropologist in another Georgetown department with approval from the Director of Undergraduate Studies. Minors may transfer a maximum of two electives from coursework taken abroad. For course listings for Anthropology see the Schedule of Classes.