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Definition
Studies language across time & space
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Example / case study
Malinowski’s study of Trobriand Islanders. The Enduring Voices Project (National Geographic) documents endangered languages through audio-visual records.
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Definition
Cultural Anthropology is the study of learned behaviour, beliefs, customs, traditions, institutions, and values of different human societies.
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Example / case study
Information is reconstructed almost entirely through archaeological evidence. Together they explain humans from biological, cultural, linguistic and historical perspectives. Anthropology today extends far beyond the study of tribes.
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Thinkers
E.A. Hoebel: “Anthropology is the study of man and his works.”
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Definition
Drives cycle of suffering until Moksha is attained.
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Example / case study
over-consumption of resources → karma teaches restraint. Lucia Michelutti (The Vernacularisation of Democracy, 2008) → Yadavs of UP link identity to Krishna descent. John Cort (Jains in the World, 2001) → Oswals consider themselves superior to other Jain castes (Shrimals, Porwals). Anuja Agrawal (Chaste Wives and Prostitute Sisters, 2008) → Bedia community narrates their Rajput origin despite prostitution as occupation.
Short notes for this Anthropology syllabus heading.