Social Anthropology and Politics, MA (Hons)

Course summary

This popular joint degree programme provides a grounding in both social anthropology and politics, two subjects which complement and enrich each other. Social AnthropologySocial anthropology is the study of human conduct and thought. Societies around the world vary enormously socially, culturally and politically. The study of these variations, and the common humanity that underlies them, is at the heart of social anthropology. PoliticsPolitics studies the theory and practice of how societies are governed.How do our political institutions create collective rules? Who has the power to make these rules, and what are the consequences of political decisions? What is the nature of a just society, and how do we get there?Drawing on the expertise of leading academics and researchers in the field, you will explore the origins and present-day contexts of societal conflicts about power, participation, and resources.You will not only study the processes of governance at the local, national, and international level, but also the morality of political action, and the limits of freedom and justice. How the programme worksYou will take a broad range of courses in both subjects in Years 1 and 2, and will have the opportunity to specialise in Years 3 and 4. You will also spend up to four months on an individual research project that will form the basis of your dissertation. Fieldwork for your project can be done both within and outside the UK.