Applied Anthropology vs. Theoretical Anthropology

Attribute	Applied Anthropology	Theoretical Anthropology
Focus	Practical application of anthropological theories and methods to real-world problems	Development and testing of anthropological theories and concepts
Goal	Solving specific problems or addressing issues in various fields such as healthcare, education, and development	Advancing knowledge and understanding of human societies and cultures
Methodology	Utilizes ethnographic research, participant observation, interviews, and other qualitative methods	Employs theoretical frameworks, comparative analysis, and critical thinking
Application	Applied in areas such as public health, business, environmental conservation, and social policy	Applied in academic research, teaching, and writing scholarly articles and books

Definition

Applied anthropology and theoretical anthropology are two branches of anthropology that serve different purposes within the field. Applied anthropology focuses on the practical application of anthropological theories and methods to real-world issues and problems. It involves working with communities, organizations, and governments to address social, cultural, and environmental challenges. Theoretical anthropology, on the other hand, is more concerned with the development and refinement of anthropological theories and concepts. It involves conducting research, analyzing data, and generating new ideas to advance the discipline.

Goals

The goals of applied anthropology and theoretical anthropology differ in terms of their focus and outcomes. Applied anthropology aims to use anthropological knowledge and skills to solve specific problems and improve the lives of individuals and communities. This may involve conducting needs assessments, designing interventions, and evaluating programs to address issues such as poverty, health disparities, and cultural preservation. Theoretical anthropology, on the other hand, seeks to deepen our understanding of human societies and cultures through research and analysis. Its goal is to generate new knowledge and theories that contribute to the broader field of anthropology.

Methods

Applied anthropology and theoretical anthropology employ different methods and approaches to achieve their respective goals. Applied anthropologists often use a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods to gather data, assess needs, and evaluate interventions. They may conduct interviews, surveys, and participant observation to understand the perspectives and experiences of the communities they work with. Theoretical anthropologists, on the other hand, focus more on theoretical frameworks, conceptual analysis, and comparative research. They may use ethnographic data, historical documents, and theoretical models to develop and test hypotheses about human behavior and culture.

Audience

The audience for applied anthropology and theoretical anthropology also varies in terms of who benefits from their work. Applied anthropologists typically work with specific stakeholders, such as government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community groups, to address practical challenges and implement solutions. Their work is often focused on creating positive social change and improving the well-being of marginalized populations. Theoretical anthropologists, on the other hand, target a more academic audience, including other anthropologists, scholars, and students in the field. Their research and theories contribute to the broader body of anthropological knowledge and inform future research and practice.

Impact

The impact of applied anthropology and theoretical anthropology can be seen in the ways they contribute to the field of anthropology and society at large. Applied anthropology has a direct impact on communities and individuals by addressing pressing social issues and promoting cultural understanding and respect. It can lead to policy changes, program improvements, and increased awareness of cultural diversity. Theoretical anthropology, on the other hand, has a more indirect impact through its contributions to academic debates, research agendas, and theoretical frameworks. It shapes the way we think about human behavior, culture, and society, and influences the direction of future research and practice in anthropology.