Contents on this web page reflect the Anthropology of Hip-Hop course taught Fall 2006 in Anthropology & Global Studies at the University of Minnesota. Link here to the 2008 University of Minnesota and Hamline University classes.

University of Minnesota: Anthropology of Hip-Hop (3 credits)
Anth3980 lect 002 / Glos3900 sec 005: Tues/Thurs 2:30 P.M. - 03:45 PM, Blegen 155

Course Description:
The course covers the historical trajectory of hip-hop from its inception in the post-civil rights era of New York City during the fiscal crises of the 1970’s in the form of four elements - break dancing, rap, turntablism, and graffiti art - to its contemporary identity as a global youth phenomenon.  The historical development of hip-hop is accompanied with the analysis of scholarly works ranging from contemporary academic research to old-school rap lyrics. Literature, lectures, legal cases, films and multi-media projects individually analyze each element and question the four-element paradigm that defines hip-hop today.  The course looks at the role gender, class, and race play in the use of hip-hop as a tool for social change while simultaneously used as a corporate marketing device.  The course aims to re-structure stereotypes and offer a deeper perspective into how hip-hop defines the identities of individuals as well as the consciousness of masses.

Readings:
Austin, Joe. 2001 Taking the Train: Youth, Urban Crisis, Graffiti. New York: Columbia University Press.

Chang, Jeff. 2005. Can’t Stop Won’t Stop: A History of the Hip-Hop Generation. St. Martin’s Press: New York.

Flores, Juan. 2000. From Bomba to Hip-Hop: Puerto Rican Culture and Latino Identity. New York: Columbia University Press..

Rose, Tricia. 1999. Black Noise: Rap Music and Black Culture in Contemporary America. Connecticut: Wesleyan University.

Required reading packet available at Paradigm Copies and E-Reserve.