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CONSUMING, CLUTTERING AND CASTING OUT

Module code: AN157
Credits: 7.5
Semester: 2
Department: ANTHROPOLOGY
International:

	Overview
	Netflix�s (2018) Tidying Up with Marie Kondo series marked a cultural moment where the �danger� of clutter became a collective and pressing concern. The series advocated for a mindful approach for how we manage our surrounding material worlds and cast scrutiny on how we store, use and cling-onto our possessions and how they should �spark joy�. This course will examine this proliferation of popular interest into consumption and divestment practices focusing on a number of themes such as the meaning of material goods, how we construct our identities, upcycling practices, defining waste, design aesthetics and Instagram culture and alternative second-hand markets. Drawing on a range of sources including academic texts, personal memoirs, popular media content, internet memes, etc., we will engage meaningfully in anthropological discussion about this �clutter complex� in contemporary times.

Overview

Netflix�s (2018) Tidying Up with Marie Kondo series marked a cultural moment where the �danger� of clutter became a collective and pressing concern. The series advocated for a mindful approach for how we manage our surrounding material worlds and cast scrutiny on how we store, use and cling-onto our possessions and how they should �spark joy�. This course will examine this proliferation of popular interest into consumption and divestment practices focusing on a number of themes such as the meaning of material goods, how we construct our identities, upcycling practices, defining waste, design aesthetics and Instagram culture and alternative second-hand markets. Drawing on a range of sources including academic texts, personal memoirs, popular media content, internet memes, etc., we will engage meaningfully in anthropological discussion about this �clutter complex� in contemporary times.

	Learning Outcomes
	On successful completion of the module, students should be able to: Show familiarity with the history of anthropology and its sub-disciplines. Explain and discuss how anthropologists understand human culture. Through a variety of case studies, understand foundational anthropology concepts and methods. Engage in critical thinking about contemporary anthropological material.

Teaching & Learning methods

Assessment

	Autumn Supplementals/Resits
	Are supplemental/resit registrations permitted? Yes Autumn repeat students may submit continuous assessment work by a date before the Autumn examination, which will be specified by the department. Students are responsible for familiarising themselves with this deadline. Is Supplemental Continuous Assessment registration permitted? Yes Is Supplemental Continuous Assessment capped? No

Autumn Supplementals/Resits

	Timetable
	This timetable is not currently available, please contact the Anthropology Department.

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CONSUMING, CLUTTERING AND CASTING OUT