Anthropology Flashcards
Define anthropology
Identify one question about social change
Anthropology is the broad study of humankind around the world and throughout time.
Are there patterns of social change? (Ex: the internet)
What is culture? What are the different components of culture?
Culture is the attitudes and behavior that are characteristic of a particular social group or organization.
The major elements of culture are symbols, language, norms, values, and artifacts.
What are two reasons that anthropologists often use participant observation as a method of
research?
It gives the researcher a better understanding of what is happening in the culture and lends credence to one’s interpretations of the observation. Participant observation also enables the researcher to collect both quantitative and qualitative data through surveys and interviews.
Why is it important for anthropologists to understand the concept of kinship?
It provides an objective, universal perspective on how people are related to one another. It is a key component of people’s everyday social relations. Kinship refers to relationships that are based on blood or marriage.
Identify and explain the three sources of cultural change.
Invention – new products, ideas, and social patterns.
Discovery – finding something that was previously unknown to a culture.
Diffusion – the spreading of ideas, methods and tools from one culture to another.
Most cultural change occurs when there is contact between two or more cultures.
What are the three methods of cultural exchange?
Diffusion: Occurs when one culture borrows cultural symbols from another.
Acculturation: Results from prolonged contact between two cultures, where they exchange beliefs, symbols, and customs.
Incorporation – free borrowing of symbols, etc.
Directed Change – one culture defeats or otherwise controls another and forces them to change parts or all of its culture.
Cultural Evolution: Cultures evolve according to common patterns.
