Cirrus@Austlit

This topic introduces students to an inter-disciplinary study of Australian society. It encourages the development and use of 'cultural mapping' skills, an awareness of the shaping forces of Australian society and provides an opportunity to analyse changing social and intellectual trends. The topic draws on a range of disciplines including: Indigenous Studies, Archaeology, Environmental Studies, Legal Studies, Politics, History, Asian Studies, Sociology, Geography, Women's Studies, Media Studies and Cultural Studies.

In this topic students will have the opportunity to examine and question the ways in which concepts of national identity/identities have evolved and to consider the ideologies and formative influences that have shaped the nation. Indigenousand non-Indigenous experience, immigration and multi-cultural policies, equity, environmental and political issues, and Australia's changing geopolitical identifications are scrutinised. Ideas about competing national, cultural and sub-cultural identities are examined in the context of 'identity debates'. Students will ask what it means to be 'Australian' and to identify with 'Australia' and survey the distinctive characteristics, territorial claims and social attitudes implicit in this term.