Anthropology Quiz

What is ethnography?

• The study of ancient artifacts

• The direct observation of a group of people by living near or among them and making records of what one observes

• The study of languages

• The study of economic systems

Answer explanation

Ethnography is defined as the direct observation of a group of people by living near or among them and making records of what one observes, making it distinct from the study of artifacts, languages, or economic systems.

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of colonialist ethnographies?

• Racism

• Social Darwinism

• Ethnocentrism

• Cultural relativism

Answer explanation

Cultural relativism promotes understanding and valuing different cultures on their own terms, contrasting with colonialist ethnographies that often exhibit racism, social Darwinism, and ethnocentrism.

What did the 1902 report of the Philippine commission suggest was necessary for the success of the new standard of relationship between the white man and the Malay?

• Economic development

• Correct understanding and scientific grasp of the people whose problems they were facing

• Military intervention

• Political reforms

Answer explanation

The 1902 report emphasized that a correct understanding and scientific grasp of the Malay people's issues were essential for establishing a successful relationship with the white man, highlighting the importance of empathy and knowledge.

What was the purpose of using ethnography in the colonial effort?

• To document ancient artifacts

• To help the colonial effort by understanding the people

• To study the languages of the colonised people

• To develop new economic systems

Answer explanation

The purpose of using ethnography in the colonial effort was to help understand the local populations, which facilitated control and governance, making the correct choice 'To help the colonial effort by understanding the people'.

What did many anthropologists recognize about ethnographies produced under the colonialist paradigm by the 1950s?

• They were highly objective

• They were not as objective as they could be

• They were completely accurate

• They were irrelevant

Answer explanation

By the 1950s, many anthropologists recognized that ethnographies produced under the colonialist paradigm were influenced by biases, leading to the conclusion that they were not as objective as they could be.

What do graduate students undergo before doing fieldwork according to the text?

• Language training

• Ethical and human relations training

• Physical fitness training

• Financial training

Answer explanation

Graduate students undergo ethical and human relations training before fieldwork to ensure they understand the ethical considerations and interpersonal dynamics necessary for conducting research responsibly.

What is the impression of the author about most ethnographers today?

• They work in the interest of colonialists

• They work in the interest of the people they study

• They ignore ethical issues

• They focus on financial gains

Answer explanation

The author believes that most ethnographers today prioritize the interests of the communities they study, emphasizing ethical engagement and representation rather than serving colonialist agendas or seeking financial gain.

What must anthropologists still consider when doing research among other human beings?

• Financial issues

• Ethical issues

• Technological issues

• Environmental issues

Answer explanation

Anthropologists must prioritize ethical issues when conducting research among human beings to ensure respect, consent, and the well-being of the communities they study, making it a critical consideration in their work.

What did the American Anthropological Association do in 1969?

• Published new research methods

• Formed a committee on ethics

• Increased funding for research

• Introduced new anthropological theories

Answer explanation

In 1969, the American Anthropological Association formed a committee on ethics to address ethical issues in the field, marking a significant step in establishing professional standards for anthropologists.

What is the author's impression about the work of most ethnographers today?

• They work in the interest of colonialists

• They work in the interest of the people they study

• They ignore ethical guidelines

• They focus on financial gains

Answer explanation

The author believes that most ethnographers today prioritize the interests of the communities they study, emphasizing ethical engagement and representation rather than serving colonial or financial motives.