Applied anthropology

Definition

Applied anthropology is the practical application of anthropological knowledge, theories, and methods to address real-world issues and challenges faced by communities and organizations. It connects anthropological research with social problems, allowing anthropologists to work in various fields such as health, education, development, and policy-making. This approach aims to use anthropological insights to improve people's lives and promote social change.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Applied anthropology emerged in the early 20th century as anthropologists recognized the need to address pressing social issues, moving beyond purely academic pursuits.
2. It is often interdisciplinary, collaborating with fields like public health, environmental science, and education to tackle complex problems.
3. Applied anthropologists frequently work directly with communities to identify their needs and develop culturally relevant solutions.
4. Ethics play a crucial role in applied anthropology, requiring practitioners to prioritize the welfare of communities and ensure that their work benefits those they study.
5. The field has expanded with globalization, addressing issues like migration, transnationalism, and the impact of global economic changes on local cultures.

Review Questions

• How does applied anthropology differ from theoretical anthropology in terms of its focus and methodology?
  • Applied anthropology differs from theoretical anthropology mainly in its emphasis on practical applications. While theoretical anthropology is concerned with understanding human behavior and cultural phenomena through abstract theories and concepts, applied anthropology actively seeks to address real-world problems using anthropological insights. The methodologies in applied anthropology often involve direct engagement with communities to implement culturally sensitive solutions, contrasting with the more detached observational methods found in theoretical studies.
• Discuss the ethical considerations that applied anthropologists must take into account when conducting research within communities.
  • Applied anthropologists must navigate a range of ethical considerations when working in communities. First, they need to prioritize the well-being of the community members they study by ensuring that their work addresses their needs and concerns. Informed consent is vital; participants should fully understand the purpose of the research and how it may impact them. Additionally, applied anthropologists should avoid exploiting communities for their own benefit, maintaining transparency about their intentions and ensuring that findings lead to positive outcomes for those involved.
• Evaluate the impact of globalization on the practice of applied anthropology and its relevance in addressing contemporary social issues.
  • Globalization has significantly influenced applied anthropology by expanding its scope to include issues that cross national boundaries. Anthropologists now engage with global phenomena such as migration patterns, cultural exchanges, and economic shifts that affect local communities. This relevance allows applied anthropologists to address contemporary social issues such as inequality, environmental challenges, and cultural preservation more effectively. By understanding these dynamics, applied anthropology can contribute valuable insights to policy-making processes that consider both local contexts and global influences.

Related terms

Cultural relativism: The practice of understanding and evaluating cultural beliefs and practices within their own context rather than judging them by the standards of another culture.

Participatory action research: A research methodology that involves participants actively in the research process, aiming to create change and improve conditions based on their input and experiences.

Development anthropology: A subfield focused on understanding and improving the social, economic, and cultural aspects of development projects, ensuring they are culturally appropriate and effective.