Anthropology

If someone asked you what anthropology is, how would you respond? Anthropology is a rather complex concept to explain. Does it only study ancient human societies, or does it cover much more than that?

Get started

Millions of flashcards designed to help you ace your studies

Sign up for free

Need help?
Meet our AI Assistant

Upload Icon

Create flashcards automatically from your own documents.

   Upload Documents
Upload Dots

FC Phone Screen

Need help with
Anthropology?
Ask our AI Assistant

Review generated flashcards

Sign up for free
You have reached the daily AI limit

Start learning or create your own AI flashcards

Jump to a key chapter

    StudySmarter's anthropology notes and revisions will show you that anthropology is the study of humans, their behaviors, cultures, and biological aspects throughout history and across the world.

    StudySmarter's Introduction to Anthropology

    In fact, anthropology is the study of all human aspects, ranging from ancient societies to contemporary cultures. The study of anthropology begins with the basics of human evolution, social structures, and cultural practices. It then examines more complex aspects such as kinship, religion, and economic systems. It continues with the analysis of themes such as sustainability, aesthetics, functionality, and social impact.

    Our planet Earth is filled with various human societies and cultures. These societies interact with their environment, adapt to different cultural contexts, and evolve over time. Imagine observing a modern city with its diverse communities, languages, traditions, and historical influences. All of this is included in the study of anthropology.

    Themes of Anthropology and Learning Objectives

    On StudySmarter, you'll find essential resources for your anthropology courses. We follow specifications developed by expert anthropology educators. In this way, we ensure that our content is of high quality and relevant to anyone undertaking a learning journey with StudySmarter.

    Most anthropology courses cover the following topics:

    • Cultural Anthropology
    • Biological Anthropology
    • Archaeology
    • Linguistic Anthropology

    You'll find these topics on StudySmarter, but we also offer these additional themes:

    • Applied Anthropology
    • Medical Anthropology
    • Environmental Anthropology
    • Ethnographic Methods
    • Introduction to all themes of anthropology

    Anthropology: Cultural Anthropology

    Cultural anthropology is the foundation for studying the social lives and cultures of humans. This field examines fundamental concepts such as kinship, religion, economy, and politics, as well as modern and contemporary theories of culture.

    Anthropology: Biological Anthropology

    Studying biological anthropology is essential to understanding the evolution of humans and their biological diversity. From early hominins to modern humans, you'll discover major developments in human evolution and their impacts on our understanding of human biology.

    Anthropology: Archaeology

    Archaeology focuses on the study of ancient human societies through material remains. You'll learn to excavate sites, analyze artifacts, and interpret findings to reconstruct past human behaviors and cultures.

    Anthropology: Linguistic Anthropology

    Linguistic anthropology examines the role of language in human societies. You'll study how language shapes communication, social identity, and cultural beliefs, as well as the relationship between language and power.

    Anthropology: Applied Anthropology

    Applied anthropology involves the practical application of anthropological methods and theories to solve real-world problems. You'll explore how anthropologists work in various fields such as health, education, and international development.

    Anthropology: Medical Anthropology

    Medical anthropology focuses on the cultural and social aspects of health, illness, and healthcare. You'll learn about different medical systems, health practices, and the social determinants of health.

    Anthropology: Environmental Anthropology

    Environmental anthropology examines the interactions between humans and their environments. You'll study how different cultures understand and manage natural resources, and the impact of environmental changes on societies.

    Anthropology: Ethnographic Methods

    Ethnographic methods are essential for conducting anthropological research. You'll learn to use participant observation, interviews, and other qualitative techniques to gather data and understand human behaviors and cultures.

    How Can StudySmarter Help Me Study Anthropology?

    Whether you're revising the themes covered in your anthropology course or preparing for your upcoming exams, StudySmarter has everything you need. Our original, effective, smart, and interactive learning system allows you to master anthropology like never before. And the best part: it's completely free!

    The Anthropology Revision Guide

    Our smart guide is here to introduce you to everything you need to know to successfully revise your courses and exams in anthropology. Here's what you can discover on StudySmarter:

    Anthropology Summaries

    The anthropology summaries on StudySmarter cover everything you need to know about the essential topics of anthropology, presenting interesting facts that will deepen your understanding and appreciation of the subject.

    Anthropology Flash Cards

    Flash cards are a fantastic tool that helps you learn in an easy and fun way. The anthropology revision cards contain questions and answers on the themes covered in the summaries. Did you know that you can create your own cards with specific questions you want to practice? Isn't that great?

    Anthropology Study Groups

    StudySmarter allows you to form study groups and learn with your friends and other anthropology students from larger learning communities. Use the revision cards to quiz your group members and test their knowledge.

    Rewards for Learning Anthropology

    StudySmarter is your next best friend, encouraging you to learn and achieve the best results. Set your weekly goals: complete topics, answer revision cards correctly, ask questions. Achieving these goals will earn you trophies. The more you learn, the more trophies you earn to celebrate your hard work.

    Discover learning materials with the free StudySmarter app

    Sign up for free
    1
    About StudySmarter

    StudySmarter is a globally recognized educational technology company, offering a holistic learning platform designed for students of all ages and educational levels. Our platform provides learning support for a wide range of subjects, including STEM, Social Sciences, and Languages and also helps students to successfully master various tests and exams worldwide, such as GCSE, A Level, SAT, ACT, Abitur, and more. We offer an extensive library of learning materials, including interactive flashcards, comprehensive textbook solutions, and detailed explanations. The cutting-edge technology and tools we provide help students create their own learning materials. StudySmarter’s content is not only expert-verified but also regularly updated to ensure accuracy and relevance.

    Learn more
    StudySmarter Editorial Team

    Team Anthropology Teachers

    • 5 minutes reading time
    • Checked by StudySmarter Editorial Team
    Save Explanation Save Explanation

    Study anywhere. Anytime.Across all devices.

    Sign-up for free

    Sign up to highlight and take notes. It’s 100% free.

    Join over 22 million students in learning with our StudySmarter App

    The first learning app that truly has everything you need to ace your exams in one place

    • Flashcards & Quizzes
    • AI Study Assistant
    • Study Planner
    • Mock-Exams
    • Smart Note-Taking
    Join over 22 million students in learning with our StudySmarter App
    Sign up with Email