In order to understand regional and national differences, cultural anthropologists study human societies and cultural traditions. This research is sometimes academic, with the goal of discovering and presenting quantifiable data. Other times, it’s made to be more malleable, and it’s used to bring about cultural change or bridge gaps between societies. Cultural anthropologists are mostly employed non-profits, government agencies, or universities.
Field-based and paper-based jobs are the two main types of jobs. A field cultural anthropologist typically spends a significant amount of time in the cultures and communities he or she is researching, often years or more. Through direct immersion, the researcher is able to experience all aspects of the culture. He or she can then draw conclusions about how societies function at a very granular level, as well as point out cultural differences and disparities between locations.
Because it is filtered through the lens of personal experiences, background, and beliefs, much of a field cultural anthropologist’s work is subjective. Subjective researchers frequently use their experiences to assist communities in need or to work in nonprofit organizations that raise awareness of various cultural practices and phenomena. Expository non-fiction writing or memoirs of life lived abroad are frequently published as a result of this type of experience.
Field anthropologists do not all work with living cultures. Some people take part in on-the-ground explorations of ancient ruins, usually in collaboration with archaeologists. Archaeologists are looking for clues about who the people were and how they lived their lives, while cultural anthropologists are looking for clues about who they were and how they lived.
Cultural anthropology that is based on paper is typically more academic. A cultural anthropologist in this category is likely to devote a significant amount of time to studying cultural statistics, trend analysis, and behavioral shifts in specific populations. He or she will draw conclusions about cultures based on previous research.
These conclusions are especially useful in business situations. Corporations looking to expand into new countries frequently seek the advice of a cultural anthropologist to ensure a smooth transition. Anthropologists are frequently found in marketing departments, assisting in the creation of advertisements that are appropriate for use in various countries around the world.
Individuals with this level of specialized training may also be hired government agencies. In government settings, cultural anthropologists are frequently tasked with drafting briefs on various global trends and structures. Anthropologists also offer advice on foreign policy and intervention, particularly during times of conflict.
One of the most basic requirements for cultural anthropologists is a bachelor’s degree in anthropology. Many colleges and universities offer general bachelor’s degree programs, but the majority of jobs, especially in business and government, require more advanced degrees. The typical job description for a cultural anthropologist requires the application of expert knowledge to a variety of situations, which is usually best accomplished through extensive schooling.