Critical Thinking Questions:
1. In what ways are economic systems shaped by cultural beliefs? What are some of the differences between market-based and gift-exchange economies? Provide an example(s) to illustrate your point(s).
2. What is the difference between non-centralized and centralized political systems? What are some of the insights which can be gained froman anthropological approach to studying governmental and political structures? Provide an example(s) to illustrate your point(s).
3. Explain the following statement: the concept of race is a social construct, not a biological fact. (What does this mean? Where does the idea of race as a biological category come from? Why do people still think race is biological, when it is, in fact, not?) Use an example(s) to illustrate your point(s).
4. Gender, sex, and sexuality are not the same thing. Explain the differences between these terms. In what ways are popular perceptions of these concepts changing American culture? Provide an example(s) to illustrate your point(s).
5. Families come in many different forms. Which family structure listed in the textbook describes your own family (see pp. 319-326)? Compare and contrast this to another family structure discussed in the textbook.
6. What are the different forms of religion (see pp. 351-356 of the course textbook)? In what way(s) does an anthropological approach to the study of religion impact our understanding of its function and/or meaning?
7. What are some of the insights gained by viewing medical problems, professionals, and/or establishments from an anthropological perspective? Provide an example(s) to illustrate your point(s).
8. Think of a piece of art that is significant to you. How would you describe it from an anthropological perspective? (E.g., What is its cultural significance? Does it contain information or symbols? Has its meaning changed over time? Has it had an impact on our society? Etc.) Provide a photograph if possible.