Introduction to Anthropology: Key Concepts and Films

Practice flashcards covering anthropological theory, gender roles, social construction of time and space, and specific film case studies discussed in lectures and Delaney readings.

What is the difference between anthropological and individualist explanations?

Anthropological explanations focus on social contexts and structures, whereas individualist explanations focus on the individual.

In anthropology, what does it mean that gender roles are "relational"?

Gender roles are defined in connection to one another rather than in isolation, and they are historically in flux.

What is the significance of the "second shift" and "learnt incompetence" in the film Chore Wars?

These terms describe the gendered division of labour, where women often do more domestic work and cultural attitudes teach individuals to lack certain skills based on gender.

How is space described as an "artifact of culture"?

Space is socially constructed, embedded in power relations, and serves as a form of containment and regulation for people and ideas, exemplified by concepts like "car culture."

What does the concept of "Westphalian" borders refer to in the context of maps and space?

It refers to subjectivity and "razor thin" borders that define nation-states.

How is the construction of time viewed in anthropology?

Time is a social construct rather than a "natural" phenomenon; it is a political act that is historically contextual and embedded with cultural values like "progress."

According to Delaney Chapter 1, how is culture acquired?

Culture is learned and NOT inherited.

What are the three stages of rites of passage mentioned in Delaney Chapter 1?

Orientation and Culture, Rites of Passage, and Culture Shock.

How is the body viewed as a site of "conformity and resistance"?

Bodies are locations where cultural norms, values, and power structures are worked out through activities like dieting and adherence to culturally relative standards of beauty.

What philosopher is associated with the dichotomy of the mind and body?

Descartes.

What are the primary themes of the film Trinkets & Beads?

Cultural assimilation, missionary work, and their effects on indigenous populations.

In the film Karuara, what factors affect the social space?

Tobacco, pregnancy, ancestors in the water, and pollution such as oil spills.

What does the film Shredded illustrate regarding gender?

Gender segregation based on expectations and the impact of societal trends on body image.

What is the difference between an emic and etic perspective?

Emic is the insider's perspective within a culture, while etic is the outsider's or observer's perspective.

What is liminality?

A state of transition or being "betwixt and between" during social processes like rites of passage.