Question

What are the main ideas behind anthropological fieldwork?

a. fieldwork can be conducted 'on location' for a length of time, making it a primary source of information for anthropologists.

b. fieldwork is problem oriented in that an anthropologist has a specific question they want answered.

c. fieldwork is collaborative

d. fieldwork is a very personal endeavor for anthropologists.

e. all of the above

Answer 1

Anthropological fieldwork is a primary research method involving extended on-location study, problem orientation, collaboration, and personal engagement by anthropologists using methods like participant observation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The main ideas behind anthropological fieldwork include:

• Fieldwork as a primary source of information, often conducted on location for extended periods.
• It is problem oriented, with anthropologists having specific research questions in mind.
• Fieldwork is collaborative, involving interactions with the community studied and often other researchers.
• It is a personal endeavor, with anthropologists immersing themselves in the cultures they study and being affected by their personal experiences and backgrounds.

Fieldwork is essential in understanding cultures in their native contexts, which may include diverse settings such as urban environments, the internet, and museums. Through methods like participant observation, anthropologists directly engage with the community practices and maintain detailed records of their observations for further analysis.