An archaeologist and an anthropologist are both human society researchers. They differ, however, in the types of societies they study: archaeologists research past civilizations, whereas anthropologists research both current cultures and their historical origins. The term archaeology comes from the Greek word archaeology, which means “study of old things.” Anthropology, on the other hand, refers to the study of people. An archaeologist and an anthropologist must use different methodologies due to their different fields of study.
Archaeologists and anthropologists both work in very hands-on environments, but in different ways. Excavation and restoration of artifacts, or human-made objects, from ancient ruins may be part of an archaeologist’s field work. When removing artifacts from the dig site, archaeologists must use specialized trowels or brushes to avoid damaging them.
These artifacts are frequently the most important source of information an archaeologist has about a civilization, especially if the civilization lacked a written language. Artifacts can reveal information about how people obtained and prepared food, as well as their enemies and other historical facts. These artifacts can be studied archaeologists at the dig site, in a museum, or in a lab with specialized equipment.
An anthropologist, on the other hand, studies both biological and cultural aspects of human societies in order to determine how humans are similar and different. Studying artifacts can benefit both archaeologists and anthropologists, but in different ways. The archaeologist is primarily interested in historical events, whereas the anthropologist is more concerned with the artifact’s cultural significance, specifically what it says about the people’s beliefs and values.
An anthropologist, unlike an archaeologist, can study living cultures. This is usually accomplished through ethnography or cultural writing. The goal of an ethnographer is to spend enough time with a group of people to understand their actions, values, and beliefs. This type of anthropologist’s work is usually, but not always, carried out in less developed cultures. He or she may benefit from looking into archaeological records left the society’s forefathers, but he or she may also choose to focus solely on the current society.