Eat!: The Anthropology of Food Culture
| Course Code | GNED-235 |
|---|---|
| Lecture hours per week | |
| Lab hours per week | |
| Course Availability | Open |
| Description | Have you ever wondered why we eat what we eat? What makes a food a delicacy in one country, but disgusting in another? The way we eat, what we eat, and how we eat it can reveal a lot about culture, identity and social meanings. To understand what and how a people eat is to understand the cultural traditions, values, and influences of a group/society. The study of food from an anthropological perspective has gained popularity in recent years. Anthropology offers a fascinating lens through which to explore food beyond satisfying hunger, through the study of various cultures and contexts on topics ranging from traditions to dietary subcultures, media and the impact of globalization on food system. Through a multi-stage term project, students will critically reflect on their personal food history, food choices and the influence of their food choices on their meal preparation. Students will also gain a broad perspective on the cultural and significant factors that influence human diets. Through weekly discussions, students will exchange opinions on their beliefs, attitudes, rituals and preferences regarding food. |