Society for Applied Anthropology

Definition

The Society for Applied Anthropology (SfAA) is a professional organization that promotes the application of anthropological knowledge and methods to address real-world issues in various fields, including business, healthcare, and environmental studies. This society fosters collaboration among anthropologists and other professionals to enhance the effectiveness of research and practice in applied settings, which is crucial for driving social change and improving policies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Founded in 1941, the Society for Applied Anthropology has been instrumental in connecting anthropologists with practitioners from various fields to promote the relevance of anthropology in addressing contemporary issues.
2. SfAA organizes annual meetings that provide a platform for sharing research findings and innovative practices in applied anthropology, fostering networking and collaboration among professionals.
3. The society publishes a peer-reviewed journal, 'Practicing Anthropology', which features articles that explore practical applications of anthropological methods and insights in different contexts.
4. SfAA encourages its members to engage with communities by applying anthropological methods to understand their needs, ultimately aiming to create positive social impact through research and interventions.
5. Membership in the Society for Applied Anthropology offers access to resources, networking opportunities, and professional development aimed at enhancing the careers of anthropologists working in applied fields.

Review Questions

• How does the Society for Applied Anthropology contribute to the practical application of anthropological knowledge?
  • The Society for Applied Anthropology plays a vital role by connecting anthropologists with practitioners across various fields. It provides a platform for sharing research findings and innovative practices through annual meetings and publications. This collaboration enhances the relevance of anthropological knowledge in addressing real-world challenges and encourages members to engage directly with communities for effective interventions.
• What are some key activities organized by the Society for Applied Anthropology that promote interdisciplinary collaboration?
  • The Society for Applied Anthropology organizes annual meetings that bring together anthropologists and professionals from various fields to share insights and discuss applied research. These gatherings encourage interdisciplinary collaboration by facilitating discussions on diverse topics such as healthcare, environmental issues, and business practices. Additionally, the society publishes articles that highlight successful partnerships between anthropologists and other experts working towards common goals.
• Evaluate the impact of the Society for Applied Anthropology on advancing cultural competence within professional settings.
  • The Society for Applied Anthropology significantly advances cultural competence by promoting understanding and appreciation of diverse cultural perspectives among its members. Through its resources, workshops, and publications, SfAA equips anthropologists with skills necessary to navigate complex social environments effectively. This focus on cultural competence enhances the ability of professionals in various sectors—such as business and healthcare—to interact successfully with diverse populations, leading to improved outcomes and more equitable practices.

Related terms

Applied Anthropology: A branch of anthropology that focuses on using anthropological theories, methods, and findings to solve practical problems in real-world contexts.

Cultural Competence: The ability to understand, communicate with, and effectively interact with people from diverse cultural backgrounds, essential for successful applied anthropology.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Working across different academic disciplines to combine perspectives and expertise, often seen in applied anthropology projects addressing complex societal issues.