Symbolic Anthropology Quiz

Symbolic Anthropology: Understanding Cultural Symbols and Interpretations

• Symbolic anthropology is the study of cultural symbols and their significance in understanding a society.
• Clifford Geertz believed that culture lies within the interpretation of individuals and that cultural analysis is an interpretive, not an experimental, science.
• The meaning assigned to behavior is influenced by culturally established symbols, leading to cultural expression.
• There are two approaches to symbolic anthropology: the interpretive approach (Geertz) and the symbolic approach (Victor Turner).
• David M. Schneider is another prominent figure in symbolic anthropology who does not align with either approach.
• Prominent figures in symbolic anthropology include Geertz, Schneider, Turner, and Mary Douglas.
• Thick description is a term used to describe the interpretation of cultural behavior and its smaller sections.
• Victor Turner proposed the concept of Social Drama to describe social interactions that entail conflict and their symbolic significance.
• Anthropology and psychology have influenced each other from early on, with both fields emphasizing the interpretation of events.
• There was initially hesitation among major figures to integrate the two fields, despite clear overlap in thought.
• Some dismiss the connection between symbolic anthropology and psychology, believing that culture alone determines behavior.
• Key publications in symbolic anthropology include Geertz's "The Interpretation of Cultures" and Turner's "The Ritual Process."