This course provides a broad introduction to anthropological perspectives on European cultures in order to address some of the most important issues that arise in the study of complex societies. Among the topics that will be considered are the common themes of European cultures and the shifting meanings that have been assigned to the concept of "Europe"; the variety and diversity of European experience; and the role of local, regional, class, and national forms of identity in shaping social life. Special attention will be given to the relations between Eastern and Western Europe, the causes and dynamics of contemporary ethnic conflicts, and the problems involved in creating a liberal and democratic European Union. In addition, we will consider what contribution the study of Europe has to make to the development of anthropology, a social science that has traditionally been oriented to the study of non-western societies.
