Applied Anthropology.pptx

Here I have tried to introduce some basic concepts of applied anthropology. Hopefully, it will be pretty helpful for beginners.

1. Applied Anthropology An Introductory Analysis

2. Concept of Applied Anthropology 1. Applied anthropology is simply defined as the use of anthropological knowledge and skills to solve real-world problems.  2. Applied anthropologists focus on applying anthropological knowledge, methodology and theoretical approaches in addressing societal problems and issues. 3. Applied anthropologists play a central role in development programs and projects that have a lasting impact on the lives of the individuals and communities.. 4. The work of applied anthropologists is interdisciplinary and involves a variety of stakeholders.

3. Definition of applied anthropology Malinowski, the founding father of modern anthropology in the introduction of his article ‘Practical Anthropology’, (1929) wrote that all sciences came into being with their applications and same is the case for anthropology. He strongly advocated application of anthropological knowledge in understanding the situation of indigenous people and their efficient administration by the colonial government. He referred to it as practical anthropology.

4. Continued… In 1941, Margaret Mead, Elliot Smith and others who founded the Society of Applied Anthropology, the most well recognized professional body of applied anthropologists, defined applied anthropology as: ‘Application of anthropological perspectives through interdisciplinary scientific investigation of human relationships for solving practical problems’. According to Charles Winnik, “The application of anthropological knowledge to meet the needs of the group for which the anthropologist is working. This may include giving advice, administration or giving instructions”. (1958: 28)

5. IN Applied Anthropology: An Introduction , Van willingen (2002, 8) provides a list of common domains Where applied anthropologists Might find themselves

6. Comparing theoretical And applied anthropology Theoretical Applied Primary Objective Tests hypotheses and describes ethnographic reality Helps solve societal problems Research Methods Participant observation and interviewing Rapid ethnographic assessment

7. Comparing theoretical and applied anthropology Theoretical Applied Time Frame A year or more Several weeks to a month Collaboration Seldom collaborative Usually collaborative

8. The holistic perspective of applied anthropology Forces us to look at human problems in their historical, economic, and cultural contexts. Reminds us that the various parts of a socio-cultural system are interrelated and a change in one part of the system is likely to cause changes in other parts. Encourages us to look at problems in terms of both short run and the long run.

9. The emic view Whatever the setting of a particular project the applied anthropologist brings the perspective of the local people to the project. By describing the emic view rather than their own technical/professional view, anthropologists become able to provide information that can seriously affect the outcome of programs of planned change.

10. Cultural relativism for human rights Cultural relativism rejects universalism, critiques the individualist emphasis of human rights as Western imperialism and teaches that every society must be understood on its own terms. Cultural relativism is appropriate for certain human rights; for instance, language, food. However, others like clothing, art, and architecture differ from one culture to another and maintaining these differences remains important (Pasamonik, 2004).

11. Duties of an applied anthropologist Applied anthropologists help determine whether change is needed and how it will work. Innovation succeeds best when it is culturally appropriate. Applied anthropologists can make recommendations on the basis of their observation and prior learning but the same are liable to a certain degree of errors. Also, applied anthropologists help a community preserve its culture in the face of threat or disaster.

12. Specialized roles of applied anthropologists Policy Researcher : provides cultural data to policymakers to help them make informed decisions. Evaluator : uses research skills to determine if a program is successful. Impact Assessor : measures the effect of a project, program, or policy on the local community. Planner : helps design programs and policies.

13. Continued… Research Analyst : interprets research findings so policymakers, planners, and administrators can make culturally sensitive decisions. Needs Assessor : conducts research to determine if a program or project is necessary. Trainer: teaches professionals working in cross-cultural situations about the culture of a population.

14. Continued… Advocate : actively supports a particular group of people. Administrator/Manager: assumes administrative responsibility for a project. Expert Witness: presents culturally relevant research as part of judicial proceedings. Cultural Broker : acts as a liaison between program personnel and local ethnic communities.

15. Applied anthropology today Modern anthropology is usually seen as a helping profession. Removed from the colonial perspective. Applied anthropologists use ethnographic techniques in both foreign and domestic settings while living with and learning from local people. Anthropology’s holistic perspective (biology, society, culture and language) permits evaluation of many issues that affect people.

16. Thank you