structural anthropology

Structural anthropology, pioneered by Claude Lévi-Strauss, explores the deep structures underlying human cultures, such as language and kinship, to understand cultural phenomena.

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Definition

C1Anthropology

(academic, theoretical)A theoretical framework that examines the underlying structures shaping human cultures, focusing on universal patterns and relationships.

Example

  • Structural anthropology reveals how kinship systems can be understood through deep, underlying patterns.
  • Lévi-Strauss used structural anthropology to compare myths across different cultures.

C1Cultural Studies

(academic)An approach to studying societies that identifies deep, often unconscious structures governing social behavior and cultural practices.

Example

  • By applying structural anthropology, researchers can uncover hidden rules within cultural practices.
  • Structural anthropology helps in understanding how binary oppositions like hot-cold influence cultural norms.