Anthropological Perspective on Self and Culture PDF

ANTHROPOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ SELF __ __ __ __ __ __ __ CULTURE  01 Introduction _________ Self as Embedded in 02 Culture Contents Table of...

ANTHROPOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ SELF __ __ __ __ __ __ __ CULTURE  01 Introduction _________ Self as Embedded in 02 Culture Contents Table of Self Concept Culture _________ The Two 03 Anthropological Perspective of the Self _________ The Self and Person in 04 Contemporary Anthropology Anthropology stemmed from towo Greek words ‘anthropos’ means man ‘ logus’ study or science  Anthropology is the science of man. It is concerned about the various aspects of human species, irrespective of time and place, from ancient to the contemporary  Anthropology explores the interconnectedness and interdependence of human culture experiences in all places and ages. This kind of broad and holistic perspective in anthropological inquiry equips the anthropologists the ascendancy in explaining human nature (Havilland, et. al., 2014). Culture is symbolic. When our ancestors learned to use tools and symbols to originate meaning of significant events in life and in society, those tools and symbols become an integral part of the culture. In the words of Geertz, C. (1973), culture is "a historically transmitted pattern of meanings embodied in symbols, a system of inherited Culture conceptions expressed in symbolic forms by means of which men communicate, perpetuate, and develop their knowledge about theircattitudes toward life". CONFRONT you believe that your behaviors are the right behavior CONFORM when you adapt your way THREE WAYS WE to behave, when you conform to the whole society COMPLAIN what happens is that you will isolate yourself into social bubbles CAN RELATE of foreigners living in segregation with the society TO CULTURE  Egocentric Perspective of the Self: This perspective sees the self as autonomous, independent, and self-contained. The individual is viewed as distinct from others, and personal identity is largely defined by internal traits, emotions, and individual choices.  Sociocentric Perspective of the Self: In contrast, the sociocentric perspective sees the self as relational and defined by social roles and relationships. The individual's identity is formed through their position in a group, such as family, community, or society. Social harmony and fulfilling one's role in these relationships take priority over personal autonomy.  The concepts of "self" and "person" are central to anthropological studies, serving as vital frameworks for understanding human behavior, identity, and cultural practices. In contemporary anthropology, scholars explore these notions through various lenses, including cultural relativism, materialism, and postmodernism. This study guide delves into how these concepts are defined, their relevance across different cultures, and the methodologies used to study them.  Key Aspects of the Self: Cultural Context: The self is not static; it is influenced by social interactions and The Concept of Self cultural narratives. For instance, in individualistic societies, the self may be The notion of self often refers to an seen as separate and autonomous, while in collectivist cultures, the self often individual's perception of their own emphasizes community and relationships. identity, including their thoughts, beliefs, and experiences. It is Psychological Dimensions: Within shaped by a combination of psychology, the self can encompass the personal introspection and cultural individual self (personal traits) and the influences. social self (how one is perceived by others).  Key Aspects of the Person: Cultural Variation: Different cultures have varying criteria for what constitutes a person. The Concept of Person For example, some Indigenous cultures may attribute personhood to animals or natural The term person typically denotes a entities based on spiritual beliefs. socially recognized and culturally situated entity that possesses Legal and Ethical Dimensions: In rights, responsibilities, and identity. contemporary discussions, the rights of a person are often contrasted with unborn It often reflects the values of a children or artificial intelligences, delving particular society regarding moral into debates about personhood and legal and social recognition. status. The self's ability to distinguish acceptable behavior from unacceptable behavior indicates an awareness of the differences between itself and others, embedding the self within culture. Psychological anthropologists note the fine line between the "cultural self" and the "actual self." The "actual self" encompasses feelings, thoughts, experiences, biological and psychological factors, language, and memory, but is also self as shaped by these elements. Ultimately, the self's identity is defined by its relationship to Embedded in everything around it. Culture THANK YOU!