Final answer:
Individual motivations for becoming an anthropologist like Ruth Behar can include an interest in human cultures, a desire to educate and contribute to academic discourse, and the aim to apply anthropological methods to address real-world problems.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question of why did Ruth Behar become an anthropologist is intriguing, as it explores the motivation behind a person's career choice in the discipline of anthropology. While the provided information does not specifically mention Ruth Behar, it offers insights into the reasons why individuals choose to pursue anthropology as a profession. Personal histories of anthropologists like Elizabeth Bird and Molly Selba suggest that a fascination with human cultures, behaviors, and their social implications often drives individuals into the field. They may become anthropologists out of a desire to educate, to contribute to academic discourse, or to aid in understanding and solving real-world problems through anthropological methods such as participant observation and cultural relativism. The subject matter of anthropology, which includes the study of humans and their societies, past and present, is intrinsically compelling for those who seek to comprehend the breadth and depth of human experience. As exemplified by Elizabeth Bird's pioneering work in the anthropology of news media or Molly Selba's focus on education and outreach in human evolution, the path to becoming an anthropologist is frequently marked by a blend of academic curiosity and a commitment to societal impact.