Wednesdays, January 14 - February 18 | 1 - 3 pm | $68 | 6 weeks

Instructor: Tracy Bachrach Ehlers

This course focuses on the Yanomamo, an Amazonian tribe that has been the subject of debate for decades. The Yanomamo have maintained their distinct cultural identity despite external pressures and dramatic changes in the surrounding world. Understanding their way of life offers valuable insights into human adaptation and the preservation of indigenous cultures.

Our investigation includes debatable fieldwork ethics, slash-and-burn agriculture, complex kin relations, the shortage of women, hallucinogens, constant warfare, and the invasion of Yanomamo land by gold miners and settlers. Short, accessible articles and online videos will support and illustrate the topics. Note: Everyone – not just students from Anthropology 101 - may take this class. If you are curious about cultural anthropology, this is for you.

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