Courses

Course

Cultural Studies

Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati

This course is designed for undergraduate engineering students and faculty, providing a comprehensive introduction to Cultural Studies, a vital interdisciplinary field in humanities and social sciences. It emphasizes understanding culture as both a way of life and a contested site for discourse and action. By engaging with key concepts and approaches, students will learn to articulate their identities as cultural beings beyond their technical training.

The course modules include:

  • Introduction
  • Key Concepts
  • Sites
  • Culture Industries and Cultural Forms

Universities offering master's programs in Cultural Studies can utilize this content for foundational courses.

Course Lectures
  • Mod-01 Lec-01 Understanding Cultural Studies Part 1
    Mod-01 Lec-01 Understanding Cultural Studies Part 1
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module provides a foundational understanding of Cultural Studies, exploring its significance in the contemporary academic landscape. Students will delve into the historical development of Cultural Studies, examining its emergence as a field that bridges the humanities and social sciences. The module will address key questions such as:

    • What constitutes culture?
    • How do cultural practices shape human experiences?
    • What are the interdisciplinary connections within Cultural Studies?

    Through discussions and readings, students will be encouraged to critically engage with various cultural phenomena, fostering a deeper appreciation of their own cultural identities.

  • Mod-01 Lec-02 Understanding Cultural Studies Part 2
    Mod-01 Lec-02 Understanding Cultural Studies Part 2
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module continues the exploration of Cultural Studies by focusing on critical theories and concepts that have shaped the field. Students will engage with major theoretical frameworks that inform cultural analysis, such as:

    • Structuralism
    • Poststructuralism
    • Postcolonial theory

    Through readings and discussions, students will learn how these theories apply to contemporary cultural issues and debates, enhancing their ability to critically analyze cultural texts.

  • Mod-01 Lec-03 Evolution and Culture
    Mod-01 Lec-03 Evolution and Culture
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    In this module, students will explore the evolution of culture from a historical and anthropological perspective. The discussions will encompass:

    • The historical context of cultural practices
    • How cultures evolve over time
    • The role of technology in cultural transformation

    By analyzing various cultural changes, students will gain insights into the dynamic nature of culture and its impact on societies.

  • Mod-01 Lec-04 Evolutionary Psychology
    Mod-01 Lec-04 Evolutionary Psychology
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module delves into the concept of evolutionary psychology and its implications for understanding cultural behavior. Key topics include:

    • Basic principles of evolutionary psychology
    • The relationship between biology and culture
    • How evolutionary theories explain cultural differences

    Students will critically analyze case studies that illustrate the interplay between biological evolution and cultural practices, fostering an interdisciplinary perspective.

  • Mod-01 Lec-05 The Modern Mind: Its Origins
    Mod-01 Lec-05 The Modern Mind: Its Origins
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module investigates the origins of the modern mind, linking historical developments in thought to contemporary cultural practices. Topics covered include:

    • The Enlightenment and its impact on modern thought
    • Key figures in the development of modern ideologies
    • The transition from traditional to modern cultures

    Students will engage with texts that reflect the evolution of ideas, enabling them to understand the cultural legacy of the modern mind.

  • Mod-01 Lec-06 Memetics
    Mod-01 Lec-06 Memetics
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    In this module, the concept of memetics will be explored, focusing on how ideas and cultural phenomena spread similarly to genes. Key areas of study include:

    • The definition and history of memetics
    • How memes influence cultural trends
    • The implications of memetics for understanding social behavior

    Students will engage with case studies that illustrate the power of memes in shaping cultural narratives and public discourse.

  • Mod-01 Lec-07 Cultural Theory: Structuralism
    Mod-01 Lec-07 Cultural Theory: Structuralism
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module introduces students to cultural theory, focusing on structuralism as a foundational framework. Key discussions will include:

    • The principles of structuralism and its key theorists
    • How structuralism applies to cultural analysis
    • The critique of structuralism in contemporary theory

    Through readings and discussions, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of structuralism's role in shaping cultural studies.

  • Mod-01 Lec-08 Marxism Part 1
    Mod-01 Lec-08 Marxism Part 1
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module covers Marxist theory, beginning with its foundational concepts and extending into its applications in cultural studies. Topics include:

    • The basics of Marxist theory and its historical context
    • Class struggle and cultural production
    • The critique of capitalism through cultural lenses

    Students will analyze texts that illustrate Marxism's relevance in understanding cultural phenomena today.

  • Mod-01 Lec-09 Marxism Part 2
    Mod-01 Lec-09 Marxism Part 2
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    Continuing from the previous module, this session delves deeper into Marxism, focusing on its critiques and adaptations in the modern context. Key areas of focus include:

    • Contemporary Marxist theorists and their contributions
    • The intersection of Marxism with other critical theories
    • Case studies of cultural texts analyzed through a Marxist lens

    Students will be encouraged to think critically about the relevance of Marxism in today's cultural landscape.

  • Mod-01 Lec-10 Poststructuralism
    Mod-01 Lec-10 Poststructuralism
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module introduces poststructuralism, a critical reaction to structuralism that emphasizes the instability of meaning in cultural texts. Key discussions will include:

    • The foundational principles of poststructuralism
    • Key theorists and their critiques of structuralism
    • The application of poststructuralist thought to cultural analysis

    Students will engage with texts that demonstrate poststructuralism's impact on contemporary cultural studies.

  • Mod-02 Lec-11 Subjectivity
    Mod-02 Lec-11 Subjectivity
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module examines the concept of subjectivity in cultural studies, focusing on how personal identities are shaped by cultural contexts. Key topics include:

    • Theories of subjectivity and their historical development
    • The impact of culture on individual identity
    • Case studies highlighting the complexities of subjectivity

    Students will critically analyze how subjectivity influences cultural interpretations and personal experiences.

  • Mod-02 Lec-12 Identity
    Mod-02 Lec-12 Identity
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module focuses on the concept of identity, exploring its multifaceted nature within cultural contexts. Key discussions will include:

    • Different dimensions of identity (e.g., social, cultural, political)
    • The role of media in shaping identities
    • Globalization and its impact on identity formation

    Students will engage in discussions and analyses of identity in diverse cultural settings, enhancing their understanding of this complex concept.

  • Mod-02 Lec-13 Ideology Part 1
    Mod-02 Lec-13 Ideology Part 1
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module introduces the concept of ideology, examining its role in shaping cultural beliefs and practices. Key topics covered include:

    • The definition and historical context of ideology
    • How ideologies influence cultural narratives
    • The critique of dominant ideologies in society

    Through various readings, students will analyze how ideology operates within cultural contexts, enabling them to critically engage with cultural texts.

  • Mod-02 Lec-14 Ideology Part 2
    Mod-02 Lec-14 Ideology Part 2
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module continues the exploration of ideology, focusing on its dual nature and implications in contemporary society. Key discussions will include:

    • The concept of hegemony and cultural dominance
    • How counter-ideologies emerge in response to dominant narratives
    • Case studies of cultural texts that illustrate ideological conflicts

    Students will engage with the complexities of ideology and its impact on cultural production and consumption.

  • Mod-02 Lec-15 Representation Part 1
    Mod-02 Lec-15 Representation Part 1
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module examines representation in cultural studies, focusing on how various identities and narratives are depicted in cultural texts. Key areas of study include:

    • Theories of representation and their historical development
    • The role of media in shaping representations
    • The impact of representation on public perceptions and identities

    Students will analyze diverse representations in various cultural forms, enhancing their critical understanding of the power of representation.

  • Mod-02 Lec-16 Representation Part 2
    Mod-02 Lec-16 Representation Part 2
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    Continuing from the previous module, this session delves deeper into representation, focusing on the complexities of cultural depiction. Key discussions will include:

    • Intersectionality and its implications for representation
    • The role of power dynamics in shaping representations
    • Case studies that highlight marginalized voices and their representations

    Students will critically engage with how representation affects culture and identity, fostering a deeper understanding of diversity in cultural narratives.

  • Mod-02 Lec-17 Power
    Mod-02 Lec-17 Power
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module explores the concept of power within cultural studies, focusing on how power dynamics shape cultural practices and discourses. Key topics include:

    • Different forms of power (e.g., institutional, cultural, social)
    • The relationship between power and resistance
    • Case studies illustrating power dynamics in cultural contexts

    Students will critically analyze how power operates within society and its implications for cultural production and representation.

  • Mod-02 Lec-18 Discourse
    Mod-02 Lec-18 Discourse
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module focuses on the concept of discourse, exploring how language and communication shape cultural meanings. Key discussions will include:

    • Theories of discourse and their implications for cultural analysis
    • How discourse constructs social realities
    • Case studies of cultural texts analyzed through a discourse lens

    Students will engage with the complexities of discourse in understanding culture and its impact on identity formation and societal norms.

  • Mod-02 Lec-19 Gender Part 1
    Mod-02 Lec-19 Gender Part 1
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module examines the concept of gender within cultural studies, focusing on how gender identities are constructed and represented in various cultural texts. Key areas of study include:

    • Theories of gender and their historical development
    • The impact of media representation on gender identities
    • Case studies of cultural texts that challenge traditional gender norms

    Students will critically analyze how gender operates within cultural contexts, fostering a deeper understanding of gender dynamics in society.

  • Mod-02 Lec-20 Gender Part 2
    Mod-02 Lec-20 Gender Part 2
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module delves into the concept of gender, exploring its complexities and diverse representations across cultures. It examines:

    • The historical evolution of gender roles.
    • Gender as a social construct influenced by cultural narratives.
    • Impact of media and literature on gender perceptions.
    • Intersectionality and its relation to gender identity.

    By the end of this module, students will critically analyze how gender shapes cultural experiences and societal structures.

  • Mod-03 Lec-21 The Body
    Mod-03 Lec-21 The Body
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module addresses the concept of the body in cultural studies, focusing on how it is perceived and represented across various cultures. Topics include:

    • Body as a site of cultural meaning.
    • Representations of the body in media and arts.
    • Body politics and issues of health and identity.
    • Cultural variations in body image and ideals.

    Students will engage with critical texts to understand the body's role in cultural discourse and personal identity.

  • Mod-03 Lec-22 Space
    Mod-03 Lec-22 Space
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module explores the concept of space within cultural studies, analyzing how different cultures interpret and engage with their environments. Key discussions include:

    • Spatial practices in various cultural contexts.
    • The relationship between space and identity.
    • Urban vs. rural cultural dynamics.
    • Globalization and its impact on cultural spaces.

    Students will critically assess how space shapes human interactions and cultural expressions.

  • Mod-03 Lec-23 Time
    Mod-03 Lec-23 Time
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module addresses the perception of time in cultural contexts, exploring how various cultures understand and represent time. Topics include:

    • Chronology vs. cyclical understanding of time.
    • Time as a cultural construct.
    • Impact of technology on perceptions of time.
    • Historical narratives and their relationship with time.

    Students will engage with texts and case studies to uncover how time influences cultural practices and social relations.

  • Mod-03 Lec-24 Development
    Mod-03 Lec-24 Development
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module discusses development within cultural contexts, examining how notions of progress and modernity are shaped by cultural perspectives. Key areas of focus include:

    • Development theories and their cultural implications.
    • Globalization and its effects on local cultures.
    • Critiques of developmentalism.
    • Case studies of development in different cultural settings.

    Students will analyze the interplay between culture and development, considering alternative narratives of progress.

  • Mod-03 Lec-25 Language
    Mod-03 Lec-25 Language
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module focuses on language as a cultural phenomenon, exploring how language shapes and is shaped by cultural practices. Topics include:

    • The relationship between language, thought, and culture.
    • Language as a tool of power and identity.
    • Multilingualism and cultural diversity.
    • Language and globalization.

    Students will critically examine texts and contexts to understand language's role in cultural identity and interaction.

  • Mod-03 Lec-26 Ethnicity, Race and Nation
    Mod-03 Lec-26 Ethnicity, Race and Nation
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module examines the concepts of ethnicity, race, and nation, analyzing their intersections and cultural implications. Key discussions include:

    • Definitions and historical contexts of ethnicity and race.
    • National identity and its cultural expressions.
    • The role of media in shaping racial and ethnic perceptions.
    • Case studies of multicultural societies.

    Students will engage with theoretical frameworks to critique how ethnicity and race influence cultural dynamics.

  • Mod-03 Lec-27 Globalisation
    Mod-03 Lec-27 Globalisation
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module focuses on globalization and its cultural ramifications, examining how global processes affect local cultures. Key topics include:

    • Globalization theories and cultural impacts.
    • The flow of culture across borders.
    • Resistance and adaptation in local contexts.
    • Case studies of global and local cultural interactions.

    Students will analyze how globalization reshapes cultural identities and practices around the world.

  • Mod-03 Lec-28 Consumption Part 1
    Mod-03 Lec-28 Consumption Part 1
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module explores consumption as a cultural practice, analyzing the social and cultural meanings attached to consumption behaviors. Key discussions include:

    • Historical context of consumer culture.
    • Symbols and meanings of consumption.
    • Impact of advertising and media on consumer behavior.
    • Sustainability and ethical consumption.

    Students will critically evaluate how consumption shapes cultural identities and societal values.

  • Mod-03 Lec-29 Consumption Part 2
    Mod-03 Lec-29 Consumption Part 2
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module continues the exploration of consumption, focusing on its dual role as both a cultural practice and an economic activity. Topics include:

    • Globalization of consumer products.
    • Consumerism and its cultural critiques.
    • Social class and consumption patterns.
    • Emerging trends in ethical and sustainable consumption.

    Students will engage with case studies to understand the complexities of consumption in a globalized world.

  • Mod-03 Lec-30 Biology
    Mod-03 Lec-30 Biology
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module investigates the biological aspects of culture, examining how biology intersects with cultural practices and beliefs. Key themes include:

    • The role of genetics in cultural identity.
    • Health and cultural practices.
    • Biological determinism vs. cultural construction.
    • Case studies on health disparities across cultures.

    Students will critically assess the relationship between biology and culture, considering implications for identity and social issues.

  • Mod-04 Lec-31 Culture Industry
    Mod-04 Lec-31 Culture Industry
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module explores the concept of culture industry, analyzing how cultural products are produced and consumed in contemporary society. Key topics include:

    • Definitions and historical context of culture industry.
    • Mass media's role in shaping cultural consumption.
    • Commercialization of culture.
    • Case studies of popular culture phenomena.

    Students will critically evaluate the implications of the culture industry on cultural diversity and authenticity.

  • Mod-04 Lec-32 Commodity
    Mod-04 Lec-32 Commodity
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module focuses on the concept of commodity in cultural studies, exploring how commodities are imbued with social and cultural meanings. Key discussions include:

    • The relationship between commodities and culture.
    • Consumption as a cultural practice.
    • Commodification of culture.
    • Case studies of iconic commodities.

    Students will analyze how commodities shape identity and cultural practices in a consumer society.

  • Mod-04 Lec-33 Media
    Mod-04 Lec-33 Media
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module examines the role of media in shaping cultural narratives and identities. Key areas of focus include:

    • Media representation and its impact on society.
    • New media technologies and cultural change.
    • Critiques of media and its role in cultural hegemony.
    • Case studies on media influence in different contexts.

    Students will engage critically with media texts to understand their role in shaping cultural discourse.

  • Mod-04 Lec-34 Television
    Mod-04 Lec-34 Television
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module focuses on television as a cultural medium, analyzing its impact on society and culture. Key discussions include:

    • Television's role in shaping public opinion.
    • Representation of diverse identities on television.
    • Television as a site of cultural exchange.
    • Critiques of television's influence on cultural values.

    Students will critically evaluate television programs to understand their cultural significance and implications.

  • Mod-04 Lec-35 New Media
    Mod-04 Lec-35 New Media
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module explores new media, focusing on how digital technologies transform cultural practices and interactions. Key areas include:

    • Impact of social media on cultural communication.
    • Digital storytelling and cultural representation.
    • Ethics of digital culture.
    • Case studies of new media phenomena.

    Students will critically assess how new media shapes cultural identities and societal interactions.

  • Mod-04 Lec-36 Science, Technology and Culture
    Mod-04 Lec-36 Science, Technology and Culture
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module examines the relationship between science, technology, and culture, exploring how they interact and influence each other. Key topics include:

    • Historical perspectives on science and culture.
    • Technological advancements and cultural shifts.
    • Science communication and its cultural implications.
    • Case studies of technology in cultural contexts.

    Students will analyze how scientific and technological developments shape cultural understanding and practices.

  • Mod-04 Lec-37 Cyberculture
    Mod-04 Lec-37 Cyberculture
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module focuses on cyberculture, examining how the internet and digital spaces create new cultural forms and identities. Key discussions include:

    • The rise of virtual communities.
    • Identity formation in digital spaces.
    • The impact of online culture on social interactions.
    • Critiques of cyberculture and its implications.

    Students will critically engage with online texts and communities to understand cyberculture's role in contemporary society.

  • Mod-04 Lec-38 Cultural Policy
    Mod-04 Lec-38 Cultural Policy
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    This module addresses cultural policy, exploring how government and institutional policies shape cultural practices and expressions. Key topics include:

    • Definitions and frameworks of cultural policy.
    • The role of cultural policy in promoting diversity.
    • Case studies of cultural policy impacts.
    • Challenges in implementing cultural policies.

    Students will analyze cultural policies from various contexts to understand their significance and implications for society.

  • Mod-04 Lec-39 Critiquing Cultural Studies
    Mod-04 Lec-39 Critiquing Cultural Studies
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    The "Critiquing Cultural Studies" module engages students in a critical examination of the methodologies and frameworks within Cultural Studies. Students will explore:

    • The historical context of Cultural Studies as an academic discipline.
    • Major theoretical perspectives and their implications for understanding culture.
    • Contemporary critiques and debates surrounding the field.
    • Case studies that demonstrate the application of critical thought in cultural analysis.

    By the end of this module, students will be equipped with the skills to analyze cultural texts and practices critically, enabling them to articulate nuanced perspectives on culture and its impact on society.

  • Mod-04 Lec-40 Conclusion
    Mod-04 Lec-40 Conclusion
    Dr. Liza Das
    Play

    The "Conclusion" module serves as a synthesis of the course, allowing students to reflect on the knowledge gained throughout the program. Key features include:

    • A recap of the primary themes discussed in previous modules.
    • Integration of concepts learned into real-world applications.
    • Discussion on future directions in Cultural Studies and its relevance to engineering students.
    • Opportunities for further study and research in the field.

    This module encourages students to consider their role as cultural beings and the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in their future careers.

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