ANT 185 Exam 3 Reading

Human Language

A system of communication using defined units combined in a systematic way

Speech

The physical production of sounds using human anatomy for communication

Symbol

Something that represents something else

Arbitrary Symbols

Symbols that have no natural connection to what they represent

Closed Symbol System

A limited system (typical of animals) where symbols have only one meaning

Open Symbol System

A flexible system (human language) where symbols have multiple meanings

Displacement

Ability to talk about things not present (past, future, abstract ideas)

Productivity

Ability to create infinite new words and meanings

Grammar

Complex rules governing language structure

Phonemes

Smallest units of sound in language

Morphemes

Smallest units of meaning in language

Syntax

Rules for arranging words in sentences

Linguistic Relativity

Idea that language influences how people think

Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis

Theory that language shapes perception of reality

Linguistic Universals

Features common to all human languages

Folk Taxonomies

Cultural systems for classifying and organizing knowledge

Pheromones

Chemical signals used by animals to communicate

Culture

Shared system of knowledge, beliefs, and behaviors for survival

Power

Ability to bring about change through action or influence

Political Anthropology

Study of power, political systems, and organization

Bands

Small, egalitarian groups (hunter-gatherers)

Tribes

Larger groups with some leadership but no centralized authority

Chiefdoms

Hierarchical societies led by chiefs

States

Complex societies with centralized governments

Hegemony

Power maintained through consent rather than force

Nationalism

Strong identification with and loyalty to a nation

Skinwalker

Witch figure in Navajo belief associated with evil and transformation