Final answer:
It is true that modern cultural anthropologists use standardized surveys in their research to gather large quantities of data. These surveys can be distributed in various ways and have become an important tool in the field, including within the realm of media anthropology. However, anthropologists must remain aware of and address potential biases in their research methods.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that modern cultural anthropologists now use standardized surveys in their research can be considered true. Surveys allow the collection of a large quantity of data, which is beneficial in informing the qualitative methods that anthropologists use to ask more pointed questions relevant to their research. The distribution methods for these surveys can vary, including direct personal questioning, digital distribution through platforms such as health care providers, or via the internet.
Despite the advantages of surveys in reaching larger populations and compiling extensive datasets, some tribal scholars express concerns about the reliability of findings from such structured methods. The critics argue that these could reflect biased research practices and the confirmation of preexisting notions about cultural groups. Therefore, while surveys are widely used, anthropologists must consider the potential for bias and ensure ethical and collaborative research practices.
Overall, surveys have become an integrated tool within the field of anthropology, adapting to changing forms of culture and communication as seen in the growing subdiscipline of media anthropology. They offer insights not only in traditional face-to-face cultural interactions but also in the complexities of the digital age, where social interactions transition to screens and keyboards.