Everyday Duties for an Anthropologist
Anthropologists have a wide range of career options available. However, no matter what field you choose, the basic study and application of anthropology has some commonalities. Ultimately, an anthropologist is interested in root causes. The work of an anthropologist is based on looking at available evidence for patterns, trends and connections that help those causes become established.
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Study
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Study is an ongoing part of the life of any anthropologist. Reading the latest journal articles, books and lectures in fields that apply to the work an anthropologist is engaged in is extremely necessary. This allows someone in the field to benefit from the knowledge and advancements made by his peers. Attendance at conferences is also an ongoing part of most anthropological study, such as those held by the American Anthropological Association.
Documentation
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Anthropologists carefully document everything examined in the course of a workday in order to back up later assumptions or findings. Those working in an archaeological setting must document every find and its context carefully. Those working as consultants or researchers must keep a careful log of research and findings in order to back up recommendations. Even those working in a primarily academic field must document personal research, as ongoing publication and presentations are often a requirement of such a position.
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Writing
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The primary task of almost any type of anthropologist is writing. This includes writing papers, reports, evaluations and any other type of document included in the job description. Writing often involves a combination of the anthropologist's education in the field, documented observations and ongoing study. An example of this would be the final report prepared by a forensic anthropologist aiding in the examination of a death. Documented evidence, combined with what the anthropologist knows about her science. leads to a conclusion expressed in the final, written report.
Teaching
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Most anthropologists are frequently in a position where they are required to teach others. Scholars obviously have to teach students. Presenters at conferences and journal article writers educate their peers. An anthropologist who works with aid or conservation groups tries to educate policymakers about the causes of problems and potential solutions moving forward. An urban anthropologist educates businesses or politicians about the dynamics at work within a city.
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References
- American Anthropological Association: 2011 Annual Meeting
- California State University-Fullerton: What Do Anthropologists Do?
- St. Thomas University: Forensic Anthropology
- Indiana University; Urban Anthropology -- An Overview; Layla Al-Zubaidi
- Cleveland State University; What Can You Do With a Major in Anthropology; Jill McGrath Jones
Resources
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