American Anthropological Association

Definition

The American Anthropological Association (AAA) is a professional organization founded in 1902 that promotes the study and teaching of anthropology, including various subfields like cultural, archaeological, biological, and linguistic anthropology. The AAA serves as a platform for researchers, educators, and practitioners to share knowledge, collaborate on projects, and influence public policy. Its resources are invaluable for students and professionals interested in how anthropology intersects with various disciplines, including business anthropology.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The AAA publishes several scholarly journals that disseminate research findings and insights from the field of anthropology.
2. The organization hosts an annual meeting where anthropologists from around the world gather to present research, network, and discuss current issues.
3. AAA offers numerous resources such as grants, scholarships, and training programs to support students and professionals pursuing careers in anthropology.
4. One of the AAA's main goals is to advocate for the relevance of anthropology in addressing social issues and influencing public policy.
5. The association also emphasizes the importance of ethical standards in research and practice within the field of anthropology.

Review Questions

• How does the American Anthropological Association support the careers of those in the field of business anthropology?
  • The American Anthropological Association supports careers in business anthropology through various initiatives such as providing access to professional development resources, funding opportunities, and networking events. By hosting an annual meeting where anthropologists can showcase their research and share insights relevant to businesses, the AAA fosters collaboration among practitioners. The association also publishes journals that highlight applied research, helping professionals stay informed about current trends and methodologies that can be applied in business settings.
• Discuss the ethical standards promoted by the American Anthropological Association and their significance in business anthropology.
  • The American Anthropological Association promotes a set of ethical standards that emphasize respect for individuals and communities involved in anthropological research. These guidelines are particularly significant in business anthropology as they guide practitioners in maintaining integrity while conducting research within corporate settings. Ethical considerations ensure that the voices of participants are heard, informed consent is obtained, and that the findings are used responsibly to influence business practices without causing harm or misrepresentation.
• Evaluate how the activities and resources offered by the American Anthropological Association can enhance interdisciplinary collaboration between anthropology and business fields.
  • The activities and resources offered by the American Anthropological Association foster interdisciplinary collaboration by providing a platform for anthropologists to connect with professionals from various fields, including business. Through its annual meetings, workshops, and publications, AAA encourages discussions around shared interests such as cultural competence and applied research methods. This interaction allows for the integration of anthropological insights into business practices, enhancing decision-making processes while also broadening the scope of research that can inform both disciplines. By bridging these fields, the AAA plays a crucial role in demonstrating how anthropology can contribute to solving complex challenges faced by businesses today.

Related terms

Ethnography: A qualitative research method used in anthropology to study cultures through direct observation and participation in the daily lives of the subjects.

Applied Anthropology: A branch of anthropology that applies anthropological methods and theories to solve real-world problems, often in fields like business, healthcare, and development.

Cultural Competence: The ability to understand, communicate with, and effectively interact with people across cultures, which is essential in business anthropology.