Cultural Anthropology is the comparative study of society, politics, economy, religion, and culture, whether in historical times or in our contemporary moment. Students interested in pursuing degrees in anthropology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison will find themselves members of a vibrant intellectual community. The university is an important crossroads where a diversity of debate and intellectual exchange can be found. The department is actively involved in this diverse community and regularly invites renowned scholars from all over the world to give talks and hold seminars. When a new student is admitted to the department that student also becomes a colleague to a diverse group of scholars. The department recognizes that the methods, perspectives, and theoretical orientation originating in anthropology have now invigorated many other disciplines. This blurring of the borders between disciplines has created a rich cross- fertilization. The department encourages students to take part in this process, by taking courses and attending talks offered by other sections within the department and by finding intellectual community, scholarly events, and coursework in other departments.