Podcast
Questions and Answers
What does the term 'cultural relativism' promote in anthropology?
What does the term 'cultural relativism' promote in anthropology?
Which research method is most commonly utilized in cultural anthropology?
Which research method is most commonly utilized in cultural anthropology?
Which subfield is often referred to as 'social anthropology' in the UK?
Which subfield is often referred to as 'social anthropology' in the UK?
What belief did early anthropologists, such as Lewis Henry Morgan, hold about the progression of societies?
What belief did early anthropologists, such as Lewis Henry Morgan, hold about the progression of societies?
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Which characteristic accurately describes culture in the context of anthropology?
Which characteristic accurately describes culture in the context of anthropology?
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Which anthropologist is noted for emphasizing cultural relativism in their work?
Which anthropologist is noted for emphasizing cultural relativism in their work?
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What is the primary focus of anthropology as defined by the term?
What is the primary focus of anthropology as defined by the term?
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Which of the following is NOT considered one of the core subfields of anthropology in the United States?
Which of the following is NOT considered one of the core subfields of anthropology in the United States?
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What process do individuals undergo to learn the culture of their group?
What process do individuals undergo to learn the culture of their group?
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What does cultural relativism argue about different cultures?
What does cultural relativism argue about different cultures?
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Who conducted research with Puerto Rican crack dealers to explore social marginalization?
Who conducted research with Puerto Rican crack dealers to explore social marginalization?
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How do anthropologists believe humans differentiate themselves from other species in relation to culture?
How do anthropologists believe humans differentiate themselves from other species in relation to culture?
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Which researcher is noted for developing the participant-observation method in anthropology?
Which researcher is noted for developing the participant-observation method in anthropology?
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Which statement best describes symbols in culture?
Which statement best describes symbols in culture?
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What is a significant example of cultural change in American society?
What is a significant example of cultural change in American society?
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Which anthropologist explored child-rearing practices among the Inuit and their impact on emotions?
Which anthropologist explored child-rearing practices among the Inuit and their impact on emotions?
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Study Notes
Anthropology Overview
- Anthropology means the study of humanity, encompassing the examination of human societies, cultures, and their development.
Subfields of Anthropology in the U.S.
- The four main subfields in U.S. anthropology include:
- Archaeology
- Linguistic anthropology
- Physical anthropology
- Environmental anthropology is not one of these recognized subfields.
Cultural Anthropology
- The term "cultural anthropology" in the United States is equivalent to "social anthropology" in the United Kingdom.
Definition of Culture
- Culture is defined by a set of beliefs, practices, and symbols that are learned and shared within a group.
Notable Anthropologists
- Jean Briggs is recognized for her studies with the Inuit people in Nunavut, Canada.
- Franz Boas is regarded as the founder of American anthropology and advocated for cultural relativism.
Development of Societies
- According to early anthropologist Lewis Henry Morgan, societies develop through defined stages: savagery, barbarism, and civilization.
Influence of Culture
- Culture is the primary factor influencing human beliefs and behaviors, distinguishing humans from other animals.
Characteristics of Culture
- Culture is dynamic and changes in response to both internal and external factors, contradicting the idea that it remains static.
Learning Culture
- Enculturation is the process through which individuals learn their group’s culture.
Cultural Relativism
- Cultural relativism posits that cultures differ, and no culture is inherently superior to another.
Participant-Observation Method
- Philippe Bourgois studied poverty and social marginalization by living with Puerto Rican crack dealers in East Harlem; Bronislaw Malinowski developed the participant-observation method with the Trobriand Islanders.
Human Cultural Distinction
- Humans uniquely rely on culture to shape behaviors and perceptions, in contrast to biological imperatives.
Symbolism in Culture
- Cultural symbols are created, interpreted, and shared within groups, with meanings that can vary widely across cultures.
Cultural Change
- An example of cultural change in American society is the rapid advancements in technology, reflecting adaptability in cultural practices.
Emotional Expressions and Culture
- Research indicates that emotions, such as anger, are shaped by cultural practices, illustrated through Inuit child-rearing strategies.
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Description
Test your knowledge of anthropology with this quiz, which covers definitions and subfields of the discipline. Questions include the meaning of anthropology and the main branches recognized in the US and UK. See how well you understand the study of humanity!
