Society

Concept of Agent and Agency in Anthropology

Agent and Agency

The field of anthropology has significantly been influenced by the concept of 'agent' and 'agency', broadening our understanding of how individuals shape societies and cultures.

Implicit and Explicit Culture in Anthropology

Implicit and Explicit Culture

When attempting to understand the multifaceted dimensions of culture, it is pivotal to recognize two essential aspects: implicit and explicit culture. These two contrasting elements allow us to examine culture in its full depth, just as one might decipher an intricate puzzle.

Culture and Cultural Constructs in Anthropology

Culture and Cultural Constructs

Culture and cultural constructs play a fundamental role in shaping societies and individuals. They offer an interpretive lens through which we understand our world and navigate social interactions.

Meaning of Descent Groups in Anthropology

Descent Groups

Descent groups are social units wherein members share a claimed common ancestry. This commonality can be traced through various means - matrilineally (through the mother), patrilineally (through the father), or bilaterally (through both parents).

Meaning of Double Descent in Anthropology

Double Descent

Double Descent refers to the sociocultural practice where descent is reckoned through both the mother's and the father's line. These dual systems are not haphazardly intertwined; they typically assign distinct roles and rights to each line.

What is Moiety System in Anthropology

Moiety System

A moiety system is a method of social division where a society is split into two complementary parts or 'halves,' commonly known as moieties. These halves or moieties serve to structure the society, directing social interactions, marriage rules, and religious responsibilities, to name a few.

Understanding Complex Societies in Anthropology

Complex Societies

Complex Societies can be defined as human civilizations that exhibit advanced forms of social organisation, often characterised by centralised governance, social stratification, division of labour, technological Advancements, and cultural  institutions.

What are Social Sciences

Social Sciences

The social sciences, a critical field of study, occupy a significant position in the broad expanse of academic disciplines.

What is Social Control in Cultural Anthropology

Social Control

Social control refers to the various mechanisms that regulate individual and group behavior in an attempt to maintain order and promote conformity within a society.

What is Patriarchy in Anthropology

Patriarchy

Patriarchy refers to a  Social system in which men hold dominant positions of power and privilege, while women and marginalised genders face subordination and limited access to resources.

Cultural Relativism in Anthropology & Sociology

Cultural Relativism

At its core, cultural relativism rejects categorizing cultures or imposing one's own cultural norms on another, contending that all cultural systems have inherent value and validity in their unique settings.