Since 1945, applied anthropology has experienced significant growth and development as a field.
It has evolved from a discipline primarily focused on academic research to one that actively engages with real-world problems and seeks to apply anthropological knowledge and methods to practical situations. The history and growth of applied anthropology can be traced through several key developments and milestones:
1. Post-World War II Era (1945-1960s):
– Anthropologists played a crucial role during World War II, providing expertise in areas such as cross-cultural communication and understanding local populations.
– The end of the war led to an increased demand for anthropologists to assist with post-war reconstruction efforts, particularly in areas such as economic development, public health, and education.
– The establishment of government agencies, such as the United Nations and various international development organizations, created new opportunities for applied anthropologists to contribute to development projects.
2. Anthropology in Development (1960s-1970s):
– The 1960s saw a shift towards a more critical approach in applied anthropology, questioning the role of anthropology in development projects and its impact on local communities.
– Anthropologists began to advocate for a more participatory and collaborative approach, emphasizing the importance of involving local communities in decision-making processes.
– The concept of “development anthropology” emerged, focusing on understanding the social and cultural dimensions of development and addressing the unintended consequences of development interventions.
3. Cultural Resource Management (CRM) and Indigenous Rights (1970s-1980s):
– The passage of legislation in the United States, such as the National Historic Preservation Act (1966) and the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (1990), led to the emergence of cultural resource management as a significant field within applied anthropology.
– Anthropologists began working with government agencies and Indigenous communities to identify, preserve, and manage cultural resources, including archaeological sites and sacred lands.
– The rise of the Indigenous rights movement highlighted the importance of anthropological research in supporting Indigenous communities’ self-determination and cultural preservation.
4. Medical Anthropology and Global Health (1980s-1990s):
– The field of medical anthropology gained prominence during this period, focusing on the social, cultural, and political dimensions of health and illness.
– Anthropologists contributed to understanding the impact of culture on health behaviors, healthcare systems, and the development of effective health interventions.
– The emergence of global health as a field of study led to increased collaboration between anthropologists and public health professionals, particularly in addressing infectious diseases, health disparities, and the social determinants of health.
5. Applied Anthropology in the 21st Century:
– Applied anthropology has continued to expand and diversify in the 21st century, with anthropologists working in various sectors, including education, business, environmental sustainability, and human rights.
– The field has embraced interdisciplinary approaches and engaged with other disciplines, such as sociology, geography, and design, to address complex societal challenges.
– Anthropologists have increasingly utilized digital technologies and data-driven methods to conduct research and analyze social phenomena.
– The importance of ethics and cultural sensitivity in applied anthropology has gained further recognition, emphasizing the need for anthropologists to engage in ethical and responsible research practices.
In summary, applied anthropology has evolved significantly since 1945, transitioning from a predominantly academic discipline to an engaged and practical field that seeks to address real-world problems. Its growth has been marked by a critical approach, increased collaboration with diverse stakeholders, and a focus on participatory and culturally sensitive research and interventions.