Sociology Plus
Cultural Anthropology Definition
Cultural anthropology is defined as the study of the artefacts and practices of particular peoples, focusing on the material basis of culture rather than solely social structures. While this distinction historically separated it from UK social anthropology, the difference is often overstated in contemporary practice. Although there is a tendency to emphasise the material aspects of culture, ideational senses are also crucial and are addressed within related fields such as cognitive and symbolic anthropology. Consequently, while the two terms remain distinct, it is doubtful whether they accurately reflect current patterns within US and UK anthropological approaches.
Distinction from Social Anthropology
The primary distinction between cultural anthropology (particularly in the US context) and social anthropology lies in their focus. Cultural anthropology tends to concentrate on the tangible artefacts and lived practices of specific groups, whereas social anthropology typically prioritises the examination of overarching social structures.
Scope and Focus
In practice, this focus has led to a tendency to stress the material basis of culture. However, this emphasis does not negate the importance of ideational understandings of culture, which are explored through cognitive and symbolic anthropological perspectives.
Contemporary Relevance
The precise delineation between these terms is subject to debate; it remains doubtful whether the traditional separation accurately mirrors current trends in both US and UK anthropology.