An anthropologist who studies the similarities and differences between cultures is known as an ethnologist. He or she may choose to spend time immersed in specific groups to speak with people and make observations, or to compare research conducted other anthropologists. An ethnologist’s main goal is to write a detailed, completely objective report that compares key aspects of two or more cultures. Human behavior, political organization, art, and other fundamental aspects of society can all benefit from research efforts.
Most ethnologists would agree that attempting to compare all aspects of one culture to those of another is an impossible task. Ethnologists typically focus on one or two cultural phenomena at a time in order to fully comprehend behaviors, motivations, and outcomes. The majority of research focuses on contrasting aspects of two contemporary groups or societies. Research can also be done to explain how different aspects of a single culture have changed over time.
An ethnologist’s research usually starts with a thorough examination of ethnographies, which are firsthand reports written other anthropologists after spending months or years observing and interacting with people of a particular culture. The ethnologist could compare and contrast ethnographies on religion, politics, education, art, family values, or any other topic of human importance. When time and money allow, researchers frequently choose to conduct personal ethnographies.
A researcher must be careful not to taint research results with preconceived notions or personal opinions. An ethnographic report must be free of bias and written in objective language in order to be meaningful. Future ethnologists can use and build on a good report for many years. A report can also be useful in efforts to identify and improve poor living conditions among certain groups of people.
An advanced degree in cultural or social anthropology is usually required of someone who wants to be an ethnologist. Some professionals have degrees in related sciences like psychology and sociology before entering the field. A new ethnologist usually starts out as a research assistant at a college, a government agency, or an anthropological society, learning from and assisting established anthropologists in their work. An ethnologist can apply for grant money and conduct independent research projects after gaining experience and establishing a solid reputation in the field.