Applied anthropology is a branch of anthropology that focuses on the practical application of anthropological knowledge and methods to solve real-world problems. It emerged as a distinct subfield in the mid-20th century, although the roots of applied anthropology can be traced back to the early days of the discipline.
The earliest
form of applied anthropology can be seen in the work of Franz Boas, who is
considered the father of American anthropology. Boas was known for his advocacy
of cultural relativism, which challenged the ethnocentric biases of early
anthropologists. His work with Native American communities in the Pacific
Northwest also demonstrated how anthropological research could be applied to
address social and political issues.
Discuss the historical
development of applied anthropology
During World
War II, applied anthropology became more prominent as anthropologists were
called upon to contribute their expertise to military and government
operations. Anthropologists worked on projects such as mapping enemy
territories, analyzing propaganda, and advising on cultural issues related to
military operations.
After the war,
applied anthropology continued to expand and diversify. In the 1950s and 60s,
anthropologists worked on development projects in countries around the world,
often in partnership with international organizations such as the United
Nations. These projects aimed to improve living conditions and promote economic
development, but they were also criticized for imposing Western values and
failing to account for local cultures and traditions.
In the 1970s,
applied anthropology began to take on a more critical and reflexive approach,
with anthropologists increasingly questioning their own role in development
projects and the potential unintended consequences of their work. This period saw
the emergence of new subfields within applied anthropology, such as medical
anthropology, urban anthropology, and environmental anthropology.
Today, applied
anthropology continues to evolve and adapt to changing social and political
contexts. Anthropologists work in a variety of settings, including government
agencies, non-profit organizations, and private industry, applying their
knowledge and methods to issues such as healthcare, education, and social
justice. Despite its many challenges, applied anthropology remains a vital and
dynamic subfield of anthropology that seeks to make a positive impact on the
world.
Applied
anthropology has its roots in the early 20th century, when anthropologists
began to apply their research methods and findings to practical problems in
society. The development of applied anthropology has been shaped by a number of
factors, including changes in the social and political landscape, advances in
technology and communication, and evolving theoretical perspectives within the discipline.
During the
mid-20th century, applied anthropology became increasingly focused on issues of
development, particularly in the context of postcolonial societies.
Anthropologists were called upon to address issues such as poverty, inequality,
and social injustice, and to work with local communities and organizations to
design and implement programs and policies aimed at improving people's lives.
In the 1970s
and 1980s, the field of applied anthropology expanded to include a wider range
of issues and contexts, including healthcare, education, environmental
conservation, and urban planning. Anthropologists began to work with government
agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and other stakeholders to
address complex social problems and develop sustainable solutions.
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Today, applied
anthropology continues to evolve and adapt to changing social, economic, and
political circumstances. Anthropologists are involved in a wide range of
fields, from public health and education to business and marketing. They work
with diverse communities and organizations, using their knowledge of cultural
practices, social structures, and human behavior to address complex social
problems and improve people's lives.
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