Insider/Outside and Ritual - Miner

Question 1

What is the definition of “ritual” in the context of anthropology?

Answer 1

A rule-governed action

Question 2

True or False: A ritual can be either sacred or secular.

Answer 2

True: rituals can be either

Question 3

What 2 functions do rituals have in the context of anthropology?

Answer 3

1. Reinforce the social structure
2. Change the social structure

Question 4

Are rituals in anthropology constant throughout time?

Answer 4

No. While they are often passed on from one generation to the next they can and often do change over time.

Question 5

What is an “outsider” in reference to a social group?

Answer 5

A person who is not a member of the given group.

Question 6

What is an “insider” in reference to a social group?

Answer 6

A person who is a member of the given group.

Question 7

What is an advantage of being an “outsider” when studying a group?

Answer 7

An “outsider” may perceive things that an “insider” would take for granted. An “outsider” may also be less affected by biases (though nobody is truly neutral!).

Question 8

What is an advantage of being an “insider” when studying a group?

Answer 8

An “insider” may perceive subtle nuances and meanings that an “outsider” would not.

Question 9

What can cause difficulty in distinguishing what it means to be an “insider” or an “outsider” in terms of a group?

Answer 9

Any of:
- Member who doesn’t show up or participate all/part of the time
- Members are not all the same just because they are “insiders”
- One can be both “insider” and “outsider” or some middle thing
- “Insiders” don’t always recognize others as “insiders” (W.E.I.R.D.)