Past Franz Boas Seminars

The Boas Seminar is the flagship lecture series of the Department of Anthropology and has an illustrious history as a venue of pathbreaking conversations and disciplinary stock-taking. In the past, the seminar format has entailed a lecture of approximately 45–50 minutes’ length and an intensive discussion with both students and faculty, followed by a reception and a smaller, more intimate dinner with the speaker and a few colleagues. The seminar takes place on at least one Wednesday (sometimes more) of each month at 4:10pm. As part of the Boas lecture series, the Department invites guest speakers to have an informal lunch with graduate students the day after the talk. This is an invaluable opportunity to discuss the work, current projects, and future interests in a more relaxed environment.