Final answer:
Anthropological studies of human sexuality examine the roles of sex and gender, the diversity of cultural expressions of sexuality, and the intricacies of sexual behavior and motivation. Significant contributions to this field include Malinowski's ethnographic work and Kinsey's large-scale survey research, which have helped to foster a deeper and more scientific understanding of human sexual behavior.
Step-by-step explanation:
The anthropological understanding of human sexuality encompasses the study of sex and gender, cultural expressions of sexuality, and the application of primate research to human sexual behavior. Sex refers to biological differences, while gender encapsulates the roles and behaviors that societies attribute to individuals based on their sex. Cultural anthropology reveals that sexuality is not merely biological but is deeply embedded in cultural norms, and it manifests differently across societies.
Cultural expressions of sexuality are diverse. For instance, Bronislaw Malinowski's studies on the Trobrianders highlight how sexuality is integral to various societal functions such as marriage, kinship, and even politics. Meanwhile, sexual orientation and gender identity are prevailing topics in modern discussions, exemplified by the groundbreaking work of Alfred Kinsey, which paved the way for open dialogue and scientific investigation into human sexuality.
Drawing from biological, societal, and personal factors, sexuality is a dynamic aspect of human life. Anthropologists analyze how people express their sexuality and challenge gender norms, understanding that our knowledge of this topic is informed by a variety of perspectives and research, including the influential work of researchers like William Masters and Virginia Johnson on the sexual response cycle.