Final answer:
In anthropology, the importance of gender relative to race or ethnicity is determined by the context and is shaped by the concept of intersectionality. Anthropological studies of gender reveal the cultural constructs of masculinity and femininity, and how these intersect with other parts of an individual's identity. Thus, it is not possible to universally claim one factor is less important than another.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question surrounding the importance of gender as a microcultural factor in anthropological fieldwork compared to race or ethnicity is a complex one. In the study of anthropology, gender is understood to be a cultural interpretation of biological differences, and it is entwined with various other facets of identity such as race, class, ethnicity, and more, a concept known as intersectionality. This makes experiences unique and complex, challenging the notion that one aspect of identity could be deemed less important universally. Gender studies in anthropology have revealed that the experiences of men and women are not solely dictated by their biology but are culturally and socially constructed, varying significantly across different societies. This has led to a broadening of the field to include diverse expressions of gender and sexuality, as well as the varying impacts these factors have in conjunction with race, ethnicity, and other identity markers.
Historically, the anthropological focus on men as general representatives of their culture shifted with the establishment of gender studies, leading to an enriched understanding of how masculinities are constructed in different societies. A growing area of research within anthropology, therefore, attends to how notions of femininity and masculinity are embedded in institutions and influence daily practices. Anthropologists also explore the ambiguities of gender identity, recognizing that some individuals do not clearly fit into the binary categories of male and female at birth, or may change their gender identity over their lifetime.
When considering the experiences of women of color in American society or the roles of men in various cultures, it is evident that gender cannot be isolated from other identity factors. Instead, it is part of a larger cultural system where it interacts with other social determinants, influencing and being influenced by them. Therefore, while gender is an integral part of anthropological studies, asserting its importance relative to race or ethnicity is not straightforward, as its impact is context-dependent and intricately linked with other aspects of social identity.