Professor: Townsend Course format: Seminar Number of respondents: 10 Total Enrollment: 18 Class Composition: Froshs: 3 Sophs: 6 Jrs: 5 Srs: 4 Concs: 1 Non-Concs: 8 Don't Know: 1

Instructor Average: 2.50 Course Average: 2.35

“United States Culture” is a look at culture in - you guessed it - the United States from an anthropological point of view. It examines the idea that the United States is a multi-cultural country by looking at different cultural values. It attempts to provide an understanding of the social structures that exist in the United States and how people react to these social institutions and numerous cultural values. There are no formal prerequisites for this seminar, though basic knowledge of United States history and some anthropology would be helpful.

The reviewers liked Professor Townsend’s encouragement of discussions and sense of humor. They commented negatively, however, on the fact that he did not return graded work or provide much other feedback over the course of the semester. They found him to be flexible and understanding, but would have preferred more information about grades.

The readings were almost all useful and interesting; several students mentioned that the book “Fast Food Nation” was particularly good. The work for this class included two exams and two other projects as well as weekly written responses to discussions or readings. The students felt that the work load was appropriate but could have been more organized.

Most students spent an average of two to three hours per week on work for this course, which for many was a little less than they had expected. Students liked this course. They especially enjoyed working with Professor Townsend. Students warn that before you take the class you should understand that the grading is a little mysterious.

View AN/0116 in the Brown Online Course Announcement.