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School of Global Studies

Difference and Diversity (L6001)

Difference and Diversity: Humans and Beyond

Module L6001

Module details for 2026/27.

15 credits

FHEQ Level 4

Module Outline

This module explores how anthropologists understand human
behaviour and cultural diversity. Why, despite similar cognitive capacities, do we see such vast cultural
variation? How is this diversity created? Is it nature or culture that shapes human behaviour? Focusing
on key writings, case studies, and audiovisual material, we examine central concepts, fieldwork
methods, and anthropology’s unique genre of writing (ethnography) to show how anthropology can
answer these questions. By the end, you will understand anthropological theory, methodology, and key
issues from ethnographies. You’ll develop analytical skills, the ability to generalise from case studies,
and use ethnographic evidence to support theoretical arguments.

Module learning outcomes

Demonstrate a basic understanding of the central concerns of anthropology

Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the key concepts and their development within anthropological theory

Demonstrate knowledge of ethnographic work and how this relates to anthropology as a whole

Demonstrate an ability to mobilise ethnographic evidence in pursuit of a theoretical argument

TypeTimingWeighting
Coursework25.00%
Coursework components. Weighted as shown below.
ReportT1 Week 8 100.00%
Essay (1500 words)Semester 1 Assessment Week 1 Thu 16:0075.00%
Timing

Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.

Weighting

Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.

TermMethodDurationWeek pattern
Autumn SemesterLecture2 hours11111111111
Autumn SemesterSeminar1 hour11111111111

How to read the week pattern

The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.

Dr Gareth Breen

Convenor
/profiles/662046

Dr James McMurray

Assess convenor
/profiles/244445

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