Economic anthropology

Definition

Economic anthropology is a subfield of anthropology that examines how economic systems and practices are shaped by cultural and social factors. It investigates the ways in which people produce, distribute, and consume goods and services, emphasizing the interconnectedness of economic activities and cultural norms. By analyzing various subsistence strategies and the impacts of globalization, this field sheds light on the complexities of human behavior related to economic life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Economic anthropology emphasizes that economic behaviors are deeply influenced by cultural beliefs and social relationships.
2. Different types of subsistence strategies, such as foraging, horticulture, pastoralism, and agriculture, illustrate diverse economic practices across cultures.
3. The rise of globalization has altered traditional economic systems, introducing new challenges and opportunities for communities worldwide.
4. Economic anthropologists often utilize ethnographic methods to understand local economies and the role of culture in shaping economic activities.
5. Trade networks established through cultural exchange can provide insights into how societies adapt to economic changes over time.

Review Questions

• How do different subsistence strategies inform our understanding of economic systems in various cultures?
  • Different subsistence strategies reveal how cultures adapt their economic practices to their environments. For example, foragers rely on hunting and gathering, while agricultural societies cultivate crops. These strategies reflect not only resource availability but also social organization and cultural values. Understanding these differences helps us see the diversity of economic systems shaped by environmental conditions and cultural practices.
• Discuss the effects of globalization on local economies and traditional subsistence practices.
  • Globalization has significantly impacted local economies by introducing new markets, technologies, and trade relationships. Traditional subsistence practices may be altered or even undermined as communities integrate into a global economy. This can lead to shifts in social structures and cultural identities as local practices compete with global market demands. Economic anthropologists study these changes to understand the balance between maintaining cultural heritage and adapting to modern economic realities.
• Evaluate the role of cultural factors in shaping economic behaviors as highlighted by economic anthropology.
  • Cultural factors play a crucial role in shaping economic behaviors, as they influence not just what is produced or consumed but also how goods are valued and exchanged. Economic anthropology emphasizes that culture affects decision-making processes related to work, trade, and resource allocation. By evaluating these influences, we gain insight into the complexities of human behavior in economic contexts and how societal norms impact individual choices within varying economic systems.

Related terms

Subsistence Economy: A type of economy where communities rely on natural resources for their livelihood, focusing on self-sufficiency rather than profit.

Globalization: The process by which businesses, cultures, and economies become integrated on a global scale, affecting local practices and economies.

Cultural Ecology: The study of how cultural beliefs and practices influence human interactions with the environment, particularly in relation to economic activities.