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Anthropology of Law and Society (ANTH30018)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 1
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Anthropology of Law and Society begins with a focus on the early themes and concepts that laid down the anthropological foundations and understandings of law and social order. Through an ethnographic approach, it will examine; (a) how everyday social practices and ideas on particular cultures and societies shape one’s understanding of laws and customs; (b) distinctions between ‘archaic’ and modern legal systems in societies around the world. Focusing particularly on former colonies in non-western societies, students will explore themes of ‘primitive law’, economic organization, processes of arbitration in customary courts (in Asia and Africa), and issues of land rights. The core readings will consist of anthropological texts about processes of justice, judgment, law and customs, and judicial processes, to focus on interpretation of rights and justice, and definitions of law and order.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject students should:



  • Demonstrate the ability to critically apply cross-cultural and anthropological perspectives to understand about the mechanisms of law, justice, order, and rules;
  • Articulate the process through which social practices and behaviour of individuals influence customs and social order in societies;
  • Demonstrate the ability to engage and think about everyday experiences of establishing law and order, and authority, across different societies from Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Europe;
  • Understand the relationship between notions of customs and regulations, and the processes of justice, order, and the law via interdisciplinary approaches.

Generic skills

Through this subject, the student will:

  • Acquire analytical skills to analyse cultural and social differences in real life situations;
  • Acquire reflective skills that accommodate multiple perspectives;
  • Acquire written and verbal communication skills to construct coherent and convincing arguments.

Last updated: 3 November 2022