ant002 midterm study guide

What is the scope of cultural anthropology? Discuss its focus of inquiry, approach, and major changes over time.

What is the main difference between the two major schools of early anthropological thought in terms of their primary concern and focus: British social anthropology and French structuralism?

How does Edward Tylor define “culture”? Discuss the four key aspects of culture by providing one example for each aspect. (Examples can be drawn from the readings, films, or other sources including your own observation)

What is ethnocentrism? Why is it problematic? In your discussion, draw examples from Bohannan’s “Shakespeare in the Bush,” the film Cannibal Tours, and your own experience or observation. How would a diffusionist argue against ethnocentrism?

What is cultural relativism? Discuss its pros and cons. What is your take on it? Support your argument with evidence and analysis.

According to Malinowski, what is a holistic approach for doing ethnographic research and why is it important? What constitutes the proper conditions for ethnographic fieldwork? Explain three central ethnographic techniques (don’t just list them, but explain in greater detail).

What are the core issues in the code of ethics for anthropologists (discuss at least three)? Why is it important to follow them? Provide examples from the readings and lectures in your analysis.

Today most anthropologists recognize that race is a social construct that does not have a biological reality. Discuss how Boas and Montagu each defend this view. What evidence from modern genetics does the film “Race: The Power of an Illusion” provide to further support this position?

What is scientific racism? Why is it flawed and dangerous? Use one of the examples discussed in lecture (Morton versus Gould or The Bell Curve) and two examples in contemporary life and politics to support your argument.

How do anthropologists understand gender and patriarchy? Provide three examples (from the lecture or your own observation) to show that gender roles change from society to society and from time to time.

What are gender stereotypes? What is the role of advertising in making and reinforcing gender stereotypes and normalcy? Draw two concrete examples from the film (Killing US Softly) in your discussion and offer your assessment.

According to Emily Martin’s article, how do stereotypical gender roles shape scientific accounts of the egg-sperm romance?

How does Sherry Ortner explain why women are universally put in an inferior position to men? Do you agree with her argument? Why or why not? Support your view with evidence.

What are the five different economic systems in the world? Define each briefly. Briefly explain the three basic principles that govern exchanges according to Karl Polanyi.

What is a moral economy? What is a system of total service defined by Marcel Mauss? According to Marcel Mauss, why does a gift have the special power to cause its recipient to pay it back? What is potlatch? How do Ruth Benedict, Marcel Mauss, and Marvin Harris explain why potlatch exists?