Midterm

Posted: September 9th, 2013

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1. Name and describe in detail the four (4) fields of anthropology. In addition, please give examples of how these disciplines are actually and practically used in the field. The fifth field is Applied Anthropology; give examples of how and where will you find it being practiced

Cultural anthropology refers to the study of cultures in all parts of the world. it focuses on the social organization of people, cultural changes that have occurred over the years, religion, economy, and people’s political systems. Physical anthropology involves studying the biological aspects of humanity or the past and present human attributes. It studies non-human primates, human evolution using fossil records, and human biological diversity and non-cultural means of coping and adapting with the environment. The third field of anthropology is archaeology, which studies the material remains of past human behavior. The archaeologists examine materials such as tools and foundations of buildings. They interpret their findings and they are able to reconstruct early history. The fourth field of archaeology is linguistics, which is the study of communication processes and the spoken language

2. Define how anthropologists use the word ‘culture’. Name some of the main components of culture. Does a group like the United States Army have its own culture? What are some of the questionable and inappropriate ways people use the word ‘culture’?

Anthropologists use the word culture to describe the way of life of a people, and they are especially concerned with people’s beliefs and customs, laws, morals and values, art, and behavior among other capabilities. In studying culture, anthropologists are interested in finding out the things that people possess, what people think, such as their ideas, attitudes, and values, and people’s behavior. The United States Army has its own culture. It has different ideas and values, and it has distinct patterns of behavior. The officers are expected to behave in a certain way. It has its own set of traditions, which members are expected to follow. The officers have a different way of speaking, although they may be speaking English like the rest of the people. Some of the words and customs used by the army are specific to the group. People’s use of the word culture to refer to a common negative element found in only a few individuals is questionable. For instance, it is inappropriate to say that a specific group of people in a certain region has a culture of terrorism.

3. How does evolution work? In your answer, be sure to include the following key terms: natural selection, survival of the fittest, adaptation of species, genotype, and phenotype.

Evolution is the process of change that occurs in organisms, because of changes in the alleles in the organisms in different generations, or when the organisms mutate to form new species. Not all organisms survive. Species adapt to the environment in different ways. This enables them to increase their survival in the wild, thus increasing their chances of survival. Only the individuals who are best suited to the environment survive since they can be able to find food and keep away from predators. This is survival of the fittest, meaning that only the fit organisms survive. Genotype refers to the genetic profile of an organism. Phenotype is the observable trait. The organisms that are best suited to the environment are able to produce more offspring. The organisms have certain characteristics in their genes, which enables them to produce more and increase their frequency.

4. Describe in detail how genetics influence physical characteristics, making sure to include definitions of the following key terms: chromosome, gene, allele, mutation, and sexual selection

Parents’ genetic makeup enables them to pass on certain traits or physical characteristics such as gender, eye color, to their children. A person has an estimated 23, 000 genes and 23 pairs of chromosomes in every cell. The chromosomes carry the genes, which determine a person’s physical characteristics. Gene is the unit of heredity. Allele is an alternative form of a gene. Mutation refers to the change in genetic makeup which results from an error during DNA replication. Sexual selection refers to the selection of a mate based on certain characteristics. The male must work hard to get the attention of the female.

5. Define the theories of structuralism and functionalism, explaining also, how these ideas are used to help anthropologists understand and evaluate the cultures within societies

The theory of structuralism asserts that there are common properties in the human mind, through which people base their cultural forms. The theory is especially useful to anthropologists interested in culture because it helps them to discover the thoughts underlying different cultural traits and customs. The theory of functionalism the traits in a particular culture have interrelated functions. The theory further contends that all the parts within a society function so that they can satisfy people’s needs. Using the functionalism theory, anthropologists are able to understand how a cultural phase affects the whole society.

6. What are the possible origins of human aggression? Is aggression biologically or culturally determined? Is it in our genes or our environment? Or is it in both? Does it exist in the primates and lower orders of animals? Use this opportunity to explore creatively and imaginatively on this age-old topic in the social and behavioral sciences

Aggression can occur because of learned behavior. Therefore, culture is an important source of aggression. People become violent when they observe others in the same situation. They increase their aggressive behavior, when they see others get rewards because of their aggression. People will tend to be more aggressive, if they see that as the only way of getting what they want. Aggression is biological, in that it is part of human nature. This is reinforced by the theory of evolution, and the need for survival. It is not only found in humans, but it is also found in primates and in other organisms. Organisms find it necessary to engage in aggressive behavior to increase their chances of survival. They will become aggressive as they fight for food, and as they defend their territories.