Gamifying anthropological theory teaching. critique, learning and the video game civilization

Abstract

Civilization is frequently considered among the all-time most influential video game series. In this paper, I contribute an exhaustive updated discussion of the academic literature on Civilization, written mainly by US historians, teachers, political and educational scientists. Empirically, I add an unpublished anthropology classroom report from Europe to the debate, discussing methodological problems in using Civilization as a teaching tool in social theory courses, and analysing essays written by Spanish undergraduate students. Comparing scholarly literature with student essays, I make the case for a more balanced view on Civilization, between cultural critique and its learning potentials. In the domain of teaching anthropology, I argue that considering computer games for training theoretical sensibilities could complement the current focus on virtual worlds and roleplay on the one hand, and on traditional text and film formats on the other.