This anthropology dictionary provides definitions for some of the most commonly used terms in anthropological research.
The substantivist formalist debate is a theoretical argument in economic anthropology that revolves around the question of whether economic phenomena and activities can be explained purely based on universal principles of economic theory, or whether they are culturally specific and embedded in social relations.
Social contract theory is a political and moral theory that asserts that individuals give up some of their individual freedoms in exchange for protection and security provided by the government.
commodities are goods or services that are produced for exchange and consumption. Their value is determined by market forces such as supply and demand, and they typically have standardized qualities that make them easily transferable.
Neocolonialism is an indirect form of imperialism that represents a new phase of Western capitalist expansionism.
Neoliberalism is an economic and political ideology that emphasizes the importance of individual freedoms, free markets, deregulated economies, and global economic integration.
Game theory is the study of strategic decision-making. It allows us to analyse how individuals make decisions in situations where the outcomes depend on the actions of others.
Acculturation is a process by which individuals or groups adapt to a new culture or environment. It involves learning and adopting new behaviors, customs, and values while also retaining aspects of one’s original culture.
An adaptive strategy is a dynamic approach that allows communities to respond to changing circumstances in their environment.
Action theory provides a valuable framework for understanding how humans interact with their environment and make decisions about environmental issues.
Colonialism, the practice of acquiring and maintaining control over another country or territory, has had a profound impact on our world.
