Anthropology vs. Applied Anthropology

Attribute	Anthropology	Applied Anthropology
Focus	Study of human societies, cultures, and their development	Application of anthropological theories and methods to real-world problems
Goals	Understanding human diversity, cultural practices, and social structures	Addressing social issues, promoting social change, and solving practical problems
Methods	Fieldwork, participant observation, interviews, surveys, and analysis of cultural artifacts	Collaboration with communities, organizations, and governments; policy analysis and evaluation
Employment	Academic research, teaching, museum curation, and cultural preservation	Consulting, program evaluation, community development, public health, and international development

Introduction

Anthropology is the study of human societies and cultures, while applied anthropology is the application of anthropological theories and methods to real-world problems. Both fields share a common foundation in the study of human behavior, but they differ in their goals, methods, and outcomes.

Scope of Study

Anthropology is a broad field that encompasses four main subfields: cultural anthropology, archaeology, biological anthropology, and linguistic anthropology. Cultural anthropology focuses on the study of contemporary human societies and cultures, while archaeology examines past human societies through the analysis of material remains. Biological anthropology studies human evolution and variation, while linguistic anthropology explores the role of language in human societies.

Applied anthropology, on the other hand, is more focused on using anthropological knowledge and methods to address specific social issues or problems. Applied anthropologists work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private businesses, to help solve problems related to health, education, development, and more.

Research Methods

Anthropologists in both fields use a variety of research methods to study human societies and cultures. These methods may include participant observation, interviews, surveys, and archival research. Anthropologists also often use a comparative approach to study similarities and differences across cultures.

Applied anthropologists, however, may also use additional methods such as program evaluation, needs assessments, and policy analysis to address specific social issues. They often work closely with community members and stakeholders to develop culturally sensitive and effective solutions to complex problems.

Goals and Outcomes

The goals of anthropology are primarily academic in nature, focusing on the advancement of knowledge about human societies and cultures. Anthropologists seek to understand the diversity of human experience and the ways in which societies are organized and change over time.

Applied anthropology, on the other hand, is more focused on practical outcomes and social change. Applied anthropologists aim to use their research and expertise to improve the lives of individuals and communities, often working towards social justice, human rights, and sustainable development.

Career Paths

Anthropologists may work in a variety of settings, including universities, museums, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. They may conduct research, teach, or work in cultural resource management. Some anthropologists also work in the private sector, for example, in market research or user experience design.

Applied anthropologists, on the other hand, are more likely to work in non-academic settings, such as government agencies, non-profit organizations, and consulting firms. They may work on projects related to public health, community development, environmental conservation, or international development.

Conclusion

In conclusion, anthropology and applied anthropology are related fields that share a common foundation in the study of human societies and cultures. While anthropology focuses on academic research and the advancement of knowledge, applied anthropology is more focused on using anthropological theories and methods to address real-world problems and promote social change. Both fields offer unique opportunities for research, teaching, and practical application, making them valuable disciplines for understanding and improving the human experience.