POLS2224
CULTURE AND WORLD POLITICS
Minor Comparative Essay
Due Date: 25 March 2024 (not later than 5pm Brisbane time)
In this first assignment you are asked to write a 1000-word essay that compares and
contrasts the following writings (both online in required readings):
1. Ruth Benedict, Patterns of Culture (New York: Penguin, 1934), pp.32-40. Note
that there are several editions of this book and the pages numbers vary a bit. You want
the chapter on ‘The Integration of Culture’.
2. Ann Swidler, 'Culture in Action: Symbols and Strategies', American Sociological
Review (Vol.5, No.2, 1986), pp.273-286.
When comparing and contrasting these writings, focus on the following three things:
• How does each author conceive culture, and how do these conceptions differ?
• How does each author think culture affects humans and human behaviour, and
how do their views differ?
• Which of these two views about culture do you find more persuasive, and
why?
There is no marking rubric for this assignment. You will be assessed on how well you
meet the following criteria (as set out in the ECP):
• Your ability to read texts closely and demonstrate that you comprehend the
authors' arguments.
• Your ability to systematically compare and contrast the different arguments
presented by authors.
• Your ability to reach reasoned conclusions about the merits of different
arguments.
• Your ability to write in a clear and systematic fashion, demonstrating the
above skills and knowledge.
• Your ability to write a minor essay that complies with academic conventions,
particularly with regard the proper referencing of sources.
As explained in the School’s essay writing guide, you can use either of two
referencing systems: the ‘in-text citation’ system (Harvard), or the ‘footnote’ system
(Chicago). You must use one of these to properly reference your essay.
If you use the in-text citation system your references will count toward the word limit.
If you use the footnote system they will not count unless you include substantive
academic content in your footnotes.
Be very careful not to plagiarize.
Please do not hesitate to contact Jack, John, or me if you have questions.
Best regards
Professor Chris Reus-Smit