Anthropology Explainers

Anthropology is the study of humanity. It is a unique academic discipline in that it considers humans from a holistic perspective. This means that it considers all aspects of human life, including physical, cultural, and social dimensions. It is also multi-disciplinary, meaning that it draws on knowledge from a variety of different fields, including archaeology, linguistics, and sociology.

In this series of essays, we will explore some of the most fundamental concepts in anthropology. We will discuss topics such as culture, evolution, language, and religion. These essays are aimed at anyone who wants to learn more about this fascinating field!

The Battle for Sicily's Soul

Why did Marxist ideas only start being applied in Anthropology in the last half century, and what are some of the key ideas that influence Materialistic Anthropology?

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Why did Marxist ideas only start being applied in Anthropology in the last half century, and what are some of the key ideas that influence Materialistic Anthropology

Materialistic Anthropology, based on Marxist theory, focuses on human practices that result from the material conditions in which the society exists. This meant that there finally was a strong appreciation of the fact that historical transformations resulting from changes in material conditions are of critical importance to understand the underpinnings of a society

Bronislaw Malinowski, the Trobriand people and the Kula

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Bronislaw Malinowski, the Trobriand people and the Kula

In the early twentieth century the Trobriand people were the subject of an in-depth ethnographic study by Bronislaw Malinowski. The anthropologist lived on Mailu Island for several years. He learnt their language and interacted with the islanders daily. His stated aim was to understand the “imponderabilia of everyday life” in the tribe. 

Evans-Pritchard and the Religion of the Nuer

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Evans-Pritchard and the Religion of the Nuer

Evans-Pritchard describes the religious beliefs of the Nuer tribe as “spiritual” in that they conceive God to be Kwoth, a “being of true spirit” who is everywhere and in everything. They believe that everything they are and everything they have and everything that happens is so because it is his will.