Cultural Anthropology Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is the main focus of cultural anthropology?

The study of how culture is changing over time and how humans are affected by these changes.

Which of the following is NOT one of the four fields of anthropology?

Sociology (correct)
Archaeology
Linguistics
Biology

What is the main criticism of 'armchair anthropology'?

Armchair anthropology is criticized for its lack of direct contact with the people being studied, which can lead to inaccurate or ethnocentric perspectives.

How did Franz Boas challenge the prevailing view of cultural evolutionism?

Franz Boas challenged cultural evolutionism by arguing against the idea of a linear progression of cultures from 'primitive' to 'civilized.' He emphasized the unique complexity and diversity of cultures. Signup and view all the answers

Boas's work focused on the importance of understanding the cultural contexts and specificities within which individuals lived, rather than ranking cultures based on their perceived level of 'civilization.'

True (A) Signup and view all the answers

Who are considered the 'founding figures' of the four-field approach to anthropology?

The founding figures of the four-field approach to anthropology are Alfred Louis Kroeber and Edward Sapir. Signup and view all the answers

What is the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis?

The Sapir-Whorf hypothesis suggests that language influences how we think and perceive the world. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of language and culture. Signup and view all the answers

What were some of the key contributions of Margaret Mead to anthropology?

Margaret Mead is known for her influential work on adolescence, gender, and culture, particularly her study of Samoan youth, which challenged traditional Western views on adolescence. Signup and view all the answers

What was Ruth Benedict's primary focus in her anthropological work?

Ruth Benedict primarily focused on patterns of culture and their significance in shaping individual behaviors and social structures. Her work aimed to understand the underlying patterns of diverse cultures. Signup and view all the answers

What is the central concept of cultural relativism?

Cultural relativism emphasizes the idea that beliefs and practices should be understood within the specific cultural context in which they occur. It encourages respect for cultural differences and the avoidance of ethnocentric judgment. Signup and view all the answers

What is 'thick description' in anthropology?

Thick description refers to the detailed analysis of cultural phenomena, including not only the behavior itself but also the meanings and interpretations assigned to it by those involved in the culture. It aims to provide a deeper understanding of cultural practices and their deeper significance. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of nostalgia in Laurence Ralph's work on the 'Divine Knights' gang in Chicago?

Nostalgia plays a crucial role in shaping the experiences and identities of the 'Divine Knights' gang members. It links their present circumstances back to the past, often creating a sense of longing for a different time or a different life. It also influences their aspirations and dreams for the future. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main argument that Laurence Ralph presents through his thick description of the 'Divine Knights' gang?

Ralph's thick description of the 'Divine Knights' gang challenges simplistic portrayals of gangs as inherently criminal or pathological. He argues that gang life is complex and multilayered, influenced by historical and social factors, and the members' experiences are shaped by their own aspirations, experiences, and cultural understandings. Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Cultural Anthropology

The study of how culture evolves and impacts humans over time.

Ethnography

Fieldwork involving direct observation and participation in the culture being studied.