Research Essay: “Applied Anthropology in Real Life” – 20 Hot Topics to Base Your Project on
Last update:
Table of contents
When searching for compelling anthropology topics for your next paper, consider selecting topics that not only highlight theoretical aspects but also demonstrate real-world applications. Below is a list of 20 engaging research essay topics that serve as excellent foundations for applied anthropology studies.
20 Research Topics in Applied Anthropology
- The Importance of Ethnographic Studies in Social Research: Methods and Challenges
- Religious Diversity in Middle Eastern vs. African Villages: A Comparative Analysis
- Gender Roles and Cultural Expectations: Middle Eastern vs. African Societies
- How Ethnographies Serve as Educational Tools for Cultural Integration
- Comparing Cross-Cultural Concepts Between Two Distinct Societies
- The Influence of American Hip Hop on South Korean Pop Culture
- Immigration Patterns in South American Cities: Causes and Social Impact
- The Role of Agriculture in Shaping Social Relationships in Rural Egypt
- Exploring Non-Conformist Subcultures: From Star Trek Fans to Alternative Lifestyles
- The Role of Non-Field Researchers in Ethnographic Studies: Validity and Criticism
- Women’s Rights in Different Cultures: A Historical and Contemporary Perspective
- A Comparison of Human Rights Perceptions in the United States and China
- Cultural Bias in Viewing Other Societies and Its Implications
- Why Negative Emotions Toward ‘Others’ Are More Common Than Empathy
- Cultural Shifts Since the Election of Barack Obama: Trends and Transformations
- The Impact of Historical Events on Consumer Behavior and Emotional Decision-Making
- Hmong Patients and Western Medicine: Challenges in Cross-Cultural Healthcare
- Traditional Healing vs. Western Biomedicine: Anthropological Perspectives
- Ethical Dilemmas in Medicine: Parental Consent and Cultural Beliefs
- How Body Language and Facial Expressions Bridge Cultural and Linguistic Barriers
Each of these topics explores real-world applications of anthropology, demonstrating how cultural studies impact society, healthcare, politics, and globalization.
Pro tip
If you’re planning to explore applied anthropology in a more extensive academic format, consider getting Capstone project writing help to ensure your research is structured and impactful.
Sample Research Essay: The Cultural Conflict Between Hmong Patients and Western Medicine
The Hmong people, known for their resilience and cultural pride, have resisted external influences for centuries. Historically, they have successfully defended their traditional way of life against foreign powers, including France and China. However, their forced migration to the United States after the Vietnam War brought significant cultural challenges, particularly in the realm of healthcare and Western medicine.
Traditional Beliefs vs. Western Medicine
Many Hmong refugees in the U.S. struggled with the stark differences between Hmong spiritual healing practices and Western medical approaches. In their traditional belief system, illness is often attributed to spiritual imbalances rather than biological causes. As a result, healing practices include shamanic rituals, herbal remedies, and animal sacrifices rather than modern medical interventions.
However, upon arrival in American hospitals, Hmong patients encountered cultural misunderstandings. Many refused to undergo surgeries, vaccinations, or pharmaceutical treatments, believing these interventions would disrupt their spiritual balance. Without proper interpreters or culturally sensitive healthcare approaches, these misunderstandings often led to distrust between patients and medical professionals.
Case Study: Childbirth and the Hmong Perspective
One of the most contentious cultural conflicts occurred in maternal healthcare. Many Hmong women traditionally give birth without prenatal care, as their genetics and lifestyle often lead to smooth pregnancies. However, in the U.S., rumors spread that children born outside of hospitals would be denied citizenship, leading many Hmong women to rush to emergency rooms at the onset of labor.
Despite their willingness to give birth in hospitals, many refused C-sections, epidurals, or other medical interventions. The greatest point of contention was the handling of the afterbirth (placenta). The Hmong believe that the placenta, referred to as “first coat,” must be buried in a sacred location to ensure the child’s spirit can find its way back in the afterlife. However, American doctors often disregarded these concerns, mistakenly believing the Hmong wanted to consume the placenta or disposed of it improperly, leading to deep mistrust and fear.
Bridging the Cultural Divide
This case study highlights the necessity of cultural competence in healthcare. Misunderstandings between Western doctors and Hmong patients led to fear, resistance, and poor health outcomes. Over time, hospitals began to incorporate culturally sensitive policies, including:
- Medical interpreters to explain procedures in the Hmong language
- Cultural competency training for healthcare professionals
- Allowing traditional rituals when they do not interfere with medical treatment
Despite these advancements, deep-rooted tensions still exist, highlighting the ongoing challenges of applied anthropology in medicine.
FAQs on Applied Anthropology
What is applied anthropology?
Applied anthropology is the use of anthropological methods and theories to solve real-world problems, including issues in healthcare, education, development, and public policy.
How does applied anthropology impact healthcare?
It helps bridge cultural gaps, improves doctor-patient communication, and creates culturally sensitive healthcare policies to improve patient outcomes.
What are some real-world examples of applied anthropology?
Examples include cultural training for doctors, disaster relief planning, community development projects, and corporate diversity programs.
Why is ethnographic research important in anthropology?
Ethnography provides first-hand insights into human behavior, allowing researchers to understand cultural practices, social norms, and belief systems.
What role does applied anthropology play in globalization?
It examines how cultures interact, adapt, and respond to global influences, shaping policies on immigration, trade, and human rights.
References
- Chambers, Erve. Applied Anthropology: A Practical Guide. Prentice Hall, 1985.
- Eddy, Elizabeth M., and William L. Partridge. Applied Anthropology in America. Columbia University Press, 1978.
- Ervin, Alexander M. Applied Anthropology: Tools and Perspectives for Contemporary Practice. Allyn & Bacon, 2005.
- Foster, George McClelland. Applied Anthropology. Little, Brown, 1969.
- Pfeifer, Mark E., and Serge Lee. Hmong Population, Demographic, Socioeconomic, and Educational Trends in the 2000 Census.
- Purcell, Trevor. Indigenous Knowledge and Applied Anthropology: Questions of Definition and Direction. Human Organization, 1998.
- Quincy, Keith. Hmong: History of a People. Eastern Washington University Press, 1988.
This guide provides a well-rounded exploration of applied anthropology, focusing on real-world applications, cultural challenges, and solutions. By selecting a relevant topic, students can write compelling essays that highlight the significance of anthropology in modern society.
