Shane Dickson

Weekly Response Paper #6

December 8th, 2023
I feel like I know so much more about culture now that I have taken this anthropology course,

and I can identify so many more facets of it. I thought that culture was something you just

naturally assumed when you were born, but after taking this class, I have discovered that culture

is something you learn and adjust to depending on your environment. I want to be able to

broaden my perspectives when I teach my classes by utilizing the knowledge, I gained from

studying anthropology. Since I am training to become an elementary school teacher, I will be

able to use anthropology extensively in the classroom. And be able to allow children to better

understand anthropology at a younger age.

I had certain preconceived notions about age, gender, sex, and religion before enrolling in

this course. My eyes were opened to things I was unaware of before after watching the lectures

and learning about these topics from an anthropological perspective. For instance, I used to

believe that a person's gender and sexual orientation were fixed at birth, but this class has made

me realize that these traits are not fixed. Unlike anything biological like sex, gender is something

that is offered for you culturally. I also failed to consider the extent to which individuals shape a

child's gender at such an early age by choosing nursery colors and baby outfits, which predispose

a youngster to a particular gender.

"The House I Live In" is a deeply moving movie that explores important topics and starts

conversations about social structures and injustices. Its examination of systemic issues is

thought-provoking and enlightening, especially considering the relationship between racism and

the criminal justice system. Watching this movie with loved ones might encourage group

discussion and foster a greater comprehension of the complexity of these problems. Plus, the
class has given me a lot of fresh information on gender and sex, which has given me a wonderful

opportunity to question stereotypes. To increase inclusivity and raise awareness, I would

facilitate open discussions with individuals close to me. This would help them develop more

enlightened and compassionate viewpoints.