Symbolic/ Interpretive Anthropology

Question 1

What does Symbolic Anthropology tell us about Culture?

Answer 1

Cultural Construction of Reality: Cultural symbols and meanings provide frameworks for people to interpret their experiences, understand their social roles, and make sense of the world.
Social Identity and Group Membership: Culture shapes social identity and group membership by providing individuals with shared symbols and narratives that define their collective belongingness and identity e.g. flags, emblems, rituals, and language differentiate one group from another and reinforce group solidarity and cohesion
Cultural Rituals: Symbolic anthropology examines the role of cultural practices and rituals in expressing and reinforcing cultural values, beliefs, and social norms = maintaining social order, establishing social hierarchies, and reinforcing collective identities and solidarity.
Change and Adaptation: Symbolic anthropology acknowledges that culture is not static but is dynamic and constantly evolving. Cultural symbols and meanings can change over time in response to social, economic, political, and environmental factors

Question 2

Clifford Geertz

Answer 2

“The Interpretation of Cultures” (1973)

Question 3

Victor Turner

Question 4

Mary Douglas

Question 5

David Schneider

Question 6

Sherry Ortner

Question 7

David Graeber