HIMALAYAN GEOGRAPHY   [Archived Catalog]
2017-2018 Undergraduate Catalog
   

ANTH 0730 - HIMALAYAN GEOGRAPHY


Minimum Credits: 3
Maximum Credits: 3
The Himalayan region is characterized by a tremendous range of social and cultural diversity that corresponds to climatic, ecological and geographical variation, as well as local and regional geopolitical factors. Historical change from the emergence of early forms of social complexity centered on chiefs and their forts ' from which the regional designation of 'Garhwali' takes its name ' through the development of kingdoms and larger polities shows the intimate link between geography, environment and socio-political transformation. Similarly, local language patterns, regional religious practices, musical styles, mythology, food culture, sartorial fashion, architectural design, agricultural and transportation technologies and engineering and trade networks have all been shaped by the structure of Muntain barriers, bounded valley communities and bracketed lines of communication that follow river systems. Whereas the political economy of the Himalayas has been structured around agricultural production, and the development of elaborate field terrace systems, there have also been subsidiary economies centered on trans-Himalayan trade and pilgrimage as well as pastoral nomadism and transhumance. Since the colonial period, the Himalayas have increasingly become a place for rest, relaxation, tourism and adventure, and this ' along with further political transformations since Indian independence `has led to the rapid development of urban areas. This course will provide a survey of Himalayan history, society and culture with a focus on the relationship among nature, the environment and geography.
Academic Career: Undergraduate
Course Component: Lecture
Grade Component: LG/SNC Elective Basis


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