Final answer:
The comparative method is a research technique used by anthropologists to study humans. It involves comparing different societies or cultures to identify similarities and differences in their behavior, beliefs, customs, and social structures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The comparative method is a research technique used by anthropologists to study humans. It involves comparing different societies or cultures to identify similarities and differences in their behavior, beliefs, customs, and social structures. By analyzing these similarities and differences, anthropologists can gain insights into the factors that shape human behavior and the ways in which societies function.
For example, an anthropologist might compare the marriage practices of two different cultures to understand how they differ in terms of age at marriage, marital obligations, and gender roles within marriage. This comparison can provide valuable insights into the cultural, social, and economic factors that influence marital practices.
In addition to comparing different societies, anthropologists also use the comparative method to study changes over time within a single society. By examining historical records and studying cultural artifacts, they can track changes in behavior, beliefs, and social structures over time.