65303 - ANTROPOLOGIA DELLE MIGRAZIONI

Learning outcomes

The course aims to present the basic theoretical concepts necessary to study and analyze migratory processes from the specific perspective of anthropology, utilizing an ethnographic approach rooted in local contexts of origin and projected toward the cosmopolitan societies where migrants arrive. By the end of the course, students will develop the ability to theoretically frame the migration phenomenon, critically analyze the discursive field surrounding it—shaped by media and political actors in host societies—and ethnographically understand the ideological pressures underpinning migratory projects in the societies of origin.

Course contents

The course aims to analyze contemporary migration flows through the knowledge and methodologies specific to anthropology. The primary objective is to provide students with the fundamental skills to analyze and understand both the historical and current forms of human mobility and its governance in the contemporary world, with a particular focus on the Mediterranean region.

Through a dialogical approach rooted in ethnographic evidence, the course seeks to stimulate critical thinking and provide suitable interpretative tools. It will introduce the basic terminology and analytical frameworks necessary to study transnational phenomena related to migration, while delving into the main theoretical perspectives by exploring various schools of thought, paradigms, and methodologies.

Particular attention will be given to the cultures of migration, the narratives tied to migratory processes, and the factors influencing people’s movements, such as geopolitical conditions and violations of fundamental rights in countries of origin. At the same time, the course will examine the themes of borders and boundaries, with a focus on national and European migration policies and mechanisms of social exclusion.

Additionally, the course will address issues of racism, discrimination, and inhumane treatment, while also analyzing contexts related to reception facilities, detention centers, and deportation practices.

Finally, the course will explore the issue of migrants' access to fundamental rights, reflecting on current and future challenges and emphasizing the essential contribution of anthropology in understanding and addressing these issues.

Readings/Bibliography

PROGRAM FOR ATTENDING STUDENTS:

1. Capello C., Cingolani P., Vietti F., 2023, Etnografia delle migrazioni, Carocci, Rome.

2. Sorgoni B., 2022, Antropologia delle migrazioni. L'età dei rifugiati, Carocci, Rome.

3. Course materials uploaded to the online platform at the beginning of the course.

PROGRAM FOR NON-ATTENDING STUDENTS:

1. Capello C., Cingolani P., Vietti F., 2023, Etnografia delle migrazioni, Carocci, Rome.

2. Sorgoni B., 2022, Antropologia delle migrazioni. L'età dei rifugiati, Carocci, Rome.

3. Mellino M., 2015, Cittadinanze postcoloniali. Appartenenze, razza e razzismo in Europa, Carocci, Rome.

Working Students

Working students are invited to contact the professor via email. 

Teaching methods

The course consists of lectures supported by authentic and digital materials, complemented by seminar discussions and group work.

Assessment methods

Oral Exam

The purpose of the oral examination is to verify the understanding and assimilation of the main contents discussed during the course and included in the syllabus.

For attending students only, there will be an optional opportunity to present group projects in class on specific texts or topics. If accepted, the grade from the presentation will be averaged with the grade from the oral exam.

The final grade will assess the development of competencies according to the following criteria:

1. The student’s ability to define key concepts and interpretive paradigms.
2. Use of appropriate and discipline-specific terminology.
3. Ability to carry out comparative analyses.
4. Methodological awareness.
5. Ability to discuss points of view from the analyzed debates and to express their own perspective.

Teaching tools

Power Point presentations, supplementary materials, and thematic bibliographies will be available on the online platform (Virtuale). 

Students with disabilities or SLDs are encouraged to contact the professor to agree on appropriate adjustments and necessary compensatory tools.

Office hours

See the website of Stefania Spada