This course explores cities through an anthropological lens. We study the built environment and demographics of city neighborhoods as the result of political decisions, economic forces, and social processes. And we strive to understand the lived experiences of city residents, as well as how these city dwellers shape the urban spaces they live in. Given Austin College’s location in Sherman, Texas, with about 50,000 people, the research students do, including life history interviews and observations, focuses on this small city setting. Students interview longtime residents about their experiences living in Sherman, Texas. They also spend time walking, observing, and documenting their observations of specific areas of the city.

The final project for this course is a photo essay based on the research students have conducted over the course of the semester.