INTRODUCTION
These are the assignment of Anthropology and its answers. The questions are enable the students to read the
course and understand its concept and apply in every day of life. After doing the assignment one may get
useful information regarding with the following questions such as what makes Anthropology different from
other disciplines, what is the relation between Economy, Accounting and Culture and its impact in social life,
Is there differences or similarity between culture shock, ethnocentrism and cultural relativism, What are
factors that affect culture change, what is the differences between monogamy and polygomy marriage and
etc.
1 What makes Anthropology different from other disciplines? Explain it detail.
Anthropology is a multidisciplinary field of study that focuses on understanding human beings, their cultures,
and their societies. It is distinct from other disciplines in several ways:
Holistic Approach: Anthropology takes a holistic approach to studying human societies and cultures,
examining all aspects of human life, including social, cultural, biological, and linguistic dimensions.
Cross-Cultural Perspective: Anthropology is unique in its emphasis on cross-cultural comparison and
analysis. Anthropologists study different cultures and societies, both past and present, to understand
the similarities and differences among human groups. This comparative approach helps to identify
universal patterns and processes, as well as the unique characteristics of specific cultures.
Longitudinal Perspective: Anthropology has a long history. This longitudinal perspective allows
anthropologists to understand the evolution of human societies and cultures, as well as the impact
of historical events and processes on human societies.
Interdisciplinary Approach: Anthropology draws on a wide range of disciplines, including sociology,
psychology, biology, linguistics, and history. This interdisciplinary approach allows anthropologists to
adopt a variety of methodologies and theoretical frameworks to study human societies and cultures,
resulting in a rich and diverse field of study.
Applied Anthropology: Anthropology is not only an academic discipline but also has practical
applications in fields such as development, health, education, and environmental conservation.
Applied anthropologists work with communities and Anthropology is a unique discipline that sets
itself apart from other social sciences and humanities in several key ways.
Focus on cultural relativism: Anthropology emphasizes the importance of cultural relativism, the
idea that all cultures have their own value systems and ways of understanding the world.
It encompasses the study of humanity in its entirety, examining the people across the world and
throughout history.
Ethnographic research methods: Anthropology relies heavily on ethnographic research methods,
which involve immersing oneself in a community or culture to observe, participate in, and
understand its practices.
It focuses on studying humans as a biological and cultural species.
It is study in science that focuses on where people originate, how people develop, and contemporary
variations of people.
Anthropology aims to explain very broad sense what it means to be human rather than other
discipline.
Ecological approach: Anthology applies to the study of humanity and human societies such as how
socio cultural systems interact with natural or ecological system.
2 Discuss about Economy, Accounting and Culture
Economy, accounting, and culture are interconnected concepts that play important roles in understanding
human societies and their interactions.economy, accounting, and culture are deeply intertwined aspects of
society that influence each other in various ways. Understanding and navigating the complexities of these
relationships is crucial for individuals and organizations to thrive in a globalized and interconnected world.
The relationship between economy, accounting, and culture is complex and multifaceted. For example,
economic systems, such as capitalism or socialism, can influence cultural values and norms, while cultural
factors, such as religion or ethnicity, can shape economic behaviors and institutions. Additionally, accounting
practices and systems can be influenced by cultural norms and values, and can, in turn, shape the way people
perceive and interact with the economy.
Economy: An economy refers to the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services within a
society or region. It is driven by the interactions of economic agents, such as households, firms, and
governments, and is influenced by factors such as technology, natural resources, and government policies.
The study of economics examines how these agents make decisions, how resources are allocated, and how
markets function. Economists use various theories, models, and tools to analyze economic phenomena and
develop policies to improve economic outcomes.
- The role of cultural values, beliefs, and social institutions in determining economic behaviors, such as
attitudes toward work,wealth, and consumption.
- The importance of understanding local, context-specific economic practices, which may deviate from the
assumptions of Western, market-based economic models.
- The ways in which economic activities are embedded within broader social, political, and religious structures
in non-Western societies.
- The cultural impacts of economic development and the introduction of capitalism, which can transform
traditional social and economic arrangements.
- The cultural resistance to certain economic reforms or practices that are perceived as undermining local
values and ways of life.
Accounting: Accounting is the process of recording, summarizing, and reporting financial transactions and
information. It is a crucial component of business and helps in the preparation of financial statements, such
as income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements.
The cultural dimensions of accounting have been a central focus of anthropological research. Anthropologists
have explored:
- The culturally-specific conceptualizations of time, numbers, and record-keeping that inform different
accounting practices across SOcieties.
- The role of accounting in legitimizing and reinforcing power structures, social hierarchies, and cultural
values within organizations and communities.
- The challenges of adapting Western-centric accounting systems and technologies to non-Western cultural
contexts, and the resulting hybridization of practices.
- The cultural biases embedded within accounting standards, auditing procedures, and financial reporting
norms, which can marginalize certain perspectives and practices.
-The ways in which local cultural values, such as collectivism or social obligations, shape accounting behaviors
and the perceived purpose of financial managerment.
Anthropologists emphasize the need to recognize accounting as a cultural practice,rather than a universal,
neutral set of techniques and technologies.
Culture: refers to the shared beliefs, values, norms, symbols, language, and artifacts that characterize a
particular group of people or society. It encompasses the way people live, think, and behave, and is passed
down from one generation to another through socialization and education. Culture shapes human behavior
and influences how people perceive and interact with the world around them. Anthropologists and
sociologists study culture to understand its impact on human societies, as well as to identify and analyze
cultural variations and changes over time.
Culture has a significant impact on economic activities and accounting practices. For example, in some
cultures, there may be a greater emphasis on saving and investing, while in others, spending and
consumption may be prioritized. This can influence the overall economic growth and development of a
society.
Further more, cultural norms and values can also impact accounting practices within a society. For example,
some cultures may place a higher importance on honesty and transparency in financial reporting, while
others may be more lenient or accepting of creative accounting practices. This can have implications for the
overall financial stability and credibility of a nation's economy.
3) Explain cultural shock, ethnocentrism and cultural relativism
Cultural shock, ethnocentrism, and cultural relativism are three concepts that help us understand and
navigate cultural differences:
Cultural Shock: Cultural shock refers to the feeling of disorientation, confusion, or anxiety that a
person may experience when suddenly immersed in a new and unfamiliar culture.
It is when a person experiences disorientation and uncertainty when they are exposed to a different
culture that has different customs, beliefs, and norms than their own.
It is a common phenomenon that occurs when people travel or move to a different country or
region, where they are exposed to new customs, norms, and ways of life.
It can manifest in various ways, such as homesickness, anxiety, depression, and physical symptoms
like headaches or stomach problems.
Ethnocentrism refers to the tendency to view one’s own culture as superior to others and to judge
other cultures based on the standards and values of one’s own culture.
It is general attitude to take their own culture and way of life, the best and the center of all and also
with regard to other ethnic groups and cultures as inferior, evil, full of errors and etc.
It is tendency to add to their own culture values apply to the assessment of the behaviors and
beliefs of the people raised in different cultures.
It is a natural human tendency that can lead to prejudice, stereotypes, and misunderstandings about
other cultures.
It can prevent people from understanding and appreciating cultural differences, and can lead to
conflicts and tensions between different cultural groups.
It can also result in a narrow-minded view of the world and an inability to appreciate the diversity
and richness of different cultures.
Cultural Relativism: is the idea that cultural practices, beliefs, and values should be understood
and evaluated in the context of the culture in which they occur.
It suggests that what is considered right or wrong, good or bad, is relative to the cultural norms
and values of a particular society.
It is the belief that all cultures are equal and should be understood and accepted on their own
terms.
It is a situation where there is an attitude of respect for cultural differences rather than judge the
culture of other people as uncivilised and backward.
It is the acceptance and respect for other cultures.
It encourages people to approach other cultures with an open mind, to avoid making judgments
based on their own cultural biases, and to strive for understanding and respect.
It involves recognizing and respecting the differences between cultures and understanding that
each culture has its own unique values, norms, and beliefs that are valid within the context of
that culture.
It encourages open-mindedness, empathy, and tolerance towards other cultures, and fosters a
greater appreciation for the diversity of human societies.
4) List and define the factors that are account for cultural change.
Cultural change refers to the gradual and incremental modifications that occur in the beliefs, values, norms,
symbols, language, and practices of a particular group or society over time. Several factors contribute to
cultural change, including:
Technological advancements: Technological innovations, such as the internet, smartphones, and
social media, can transform communication, transportation, and access to information, leading to
changes in social interactions, economic systems, and cultural practices.
Globalization: refers to the increasing interconnectedness and integration of the world’s economies,
cultures, and societies. It can lead to the spread of ideas, values, and practices across different
cultural boundaries, resulting in cultural change and hybridization.
Migration and immigration: The movement of people across borders can bring new ideas, customs,
and traditions to a society, leading to cultural change and diversity. Immigrants may also influence
the culture of their host country through their beliefs, values, and practices.
Environmental factors: Changes in the natural environment, such as climate change, resource
scarcity, or natural disasters, can force societies to adapt and change their cultural practices, beliefs,
and values in response.
Political and social upheavals: Events such as wars, revolutions, or social movements can disrupt
existing cultural norms and values, leading to cultural change and the emergence of new cultural
identities and practices.
Population growth and aging: Changes in population size, structure, and age distribution can
influence cultural values, norms, and practices, as different demographic groups may have different
needs, beliefs, and priorities.
Education and media: The formal education system and mass media can shape cultural values and
norms by transmitting certain ideas, beliefs, and practices to the younger generation and the broader
population.
Social movements and activism: Social movements and activism can challenge and transform
existing cultural norms and values, leading to cultural change and the emergence of new cultural
identities and practices.
Economic factors: Changes in economic systems, such as capitalism or socialism, can influence
cultural values, norms, and practices, as different economic systems may prioritize different cultural
values and behaviors.
Cultural diffusion and assimilation: The spread of cultural traits, such, religion, or customs, from one
cultural group to another can lead to cultural change and the blending of different cultural identities.
Cultural Change: Main Factors and Causes of Cultural Change!
Contact:The contact between two societies will obviously change the culture of both the societies
through the process of “cultural diffusion” and “acculturation”.
The geographical and ecological factor:The geographical and ecological factor is a natural or a
physical factor. The climate or rainfall, attitude of the place, closeness to the sea decides the culture
and lifestyle of the people. Any change in the physical features will automatically lead to a change in
their culture, habits and way of living.
5) Discuss about monogamy and polygamy marriage
Monogamy and polygamy are two different forms of marriage that involve varying numbers of partners.
Monogamy is the practice of being married to only one person at a time. This is the most
common form of marriage in many cultures around the world. Monogamy is often associated
with beliefs in fidelity, loyalty, and commitment between two individuals. In monogamous
relationships, partners typically prioritize emotional and sexual exclusivity with each other.
Monogamy refers to a marital system in which one person has only one spouse at
time.Monogamy is often seen as a more stable and enduring form of marriage, as it provides a clear
and exclusive relationship between two individuals.
Monogamy: the marriage of one man to one woman at a time.
polygamy is the practice of having multiple spouses at the same time. There are different forms of
polygamy, including polygyny (where a man has multiple wives), polyandry (where a woman has
multiple husbands), and group marriage (where multiple men and women are married to each other
in a group). Polygamous relationships can vary in structure and dynamics, but they often involve
complex family arrangements and power dynamics.
Polygamy refers to a marital system in which one person has multiple spouses
simultaneously.Polygamy is less common than monogamy and is often associated with cultural,
religious, or economic factors.
Ultimately, the choice between monogamy and polygamy is a personal and cultural decision. Both forms of
marriage have been practiced throughout history and continue to exist in various societies around the world.
It is important for individuals to consider their own values, beliefs, and relationship dynamics when deciding
which form of marriage is most suitable for them
The practice of polygamy has been controversial throughout history, with some societies and religions
prohibiting it altogether, while others have allowed or even encouraged it. In many cases, polygamy has been
associated with social and economic inequality, as it can favor certain groups or individuals at the expense of
others.
SUMMARY
Anthropology's holistic perspective, commitment to cultural relativism, ethnographic research methods,
emphasis on cultural change, and interdisciplinary nature make it a distinctive and valuable discipline for
understanding the complexities of human life and society.organizations to address real-world problems and
promote social and cultural change.
Anthropology is distinct from other disciplines in its holistic, cross-cultural, longitudinal, interdisciplinary, and
applied approach to studying human societies and cultures. These unique characteristics make Anthropology
a powerful tool for understanding human diversity, complexity, and the many ways in which humans have
evolved and interacted with one another throughout history.
Economy, accounting, and culture are interconnected concepts that play important roles in understanding
human societies and their interactions. The study of these concepts helps us understand how resources are
allocated, how financial information is recorded and reported, and how cultural factors shape human
behavior and institutions.
Cultural Shock: Cultural shock refers to the feeling of disorientation, confusion, or anxiety that a person may
experience when suddenly immersed in a new and unfamiliar culture.
Ethnocentrism refers to the tendency to view one’s own culture as superior to others and to judge other
cultures based on the standards and values of one’s own culture.
Cultural Relativism: is the idea that cultural practices, beliefs, and values should be understood and
evaluated in the context of the culture in which they occur.
Cultural change refers to the gradual and incremental modifications that occur in the beliefs, values, norms,
symbols, language, and practices of a particular group or society over time. Several factors contribute to
cultural change, including:technological advancements, environmental, migration and immigration, diffusion,
invention and etc.
These factors interact in complex ways to drive cultural change, and the specific factors that contribute to
cultural change can vary depending on the historical, social, and environmental context of a particular society
or region.
monogamy and polygamy are two different forms of marriage that have been practiced throughout human
history. The choice between them is influenced by a range of factors, including cultural norms, religious
beliefs, economic conditions, and social structures. While monogamy is often seen as a more stable and
enduring form of marriage, polygamy can provide economic advantages and strengthen social bonds. The
practice of polygamy has been controversial and has been associated with social and economic inequality in
many cases.
REFERENCES
Module: We read the module repeatedly and select some answers for this assignment.
Note:There are many power point regarding with Anthropology course and we could also take some answers.
Social media : we did use social media such as Google and other to get the answers.
From General Knowledge: we also used our general Knowledge to do these assignment.
