Anthropology Quiz-6

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Anthropology Quiz-6 - Quiz


Questions and Answers
  • 1. 

    Anthropologists study 

    • A.

      All humans, all the time, including the evolution of humans from our non human primate ancestors

    • B.

      All humans everywhere on the planet, not just people who live in industrial or postindustrial societies, and not just exotic people who live in remote jungle tribes

    • C.

      Humans as both cultural and biological beings, as you cant understand human culture without an apperciation for human biology

    • D.

      Humans as both cultural and biological beings, as you cant understand human biology without an appreciation for human culture

    • E.

      All of the above

    Correct Answer
    E. All of the above
    Explanation
    Anthropologists study all humans, all the time, including the evolution of humans from our non-human primate ancestors. They also study all humans everywhere on the planet, not just people who live in industrial or postindustrial societies, and not just exotic people who live in remote jungle tribes. Additionally, anthropologists study humans as both cultural and biological beings, as one cannot understand human culture without an appreciation for human biology, and vice versa. Therefore, the correct answer is all of the above.

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  • 2. 

    It is accurate to say that humans are animals, because, like all other animals, humans must breathe air, drink water, eat food, protect ourselves from predators, accidents and disease, urinate and defecate, find sexual partners, reproduce, and eventually die.

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Humans are classified as animals because they share several common characteristics and behaviors with other animals. Like all animals, humans need to breathe air, drink water, and eat food to survive. They also have the instinct to protect themselves from predators, accidents, and diseases. Humans, like other animals, have the biological functions of urination and defecation. They also have the natural drive to find sexual partners and reproduce. Lastly, humans, like all living beings, eventually die. Therefore, it is accurate to say that humans are animals.

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  • 3. 

    Humans are 'animals with culture' because

    • A.

      Only humans have culture, nonhuman animal behavior is 100% instinctive (genetically hard wired)

    • B.

      Only humans have carried the cultural modification of primate life to its most elaborate and diverse extremes in a vast array of different settings

    Correct Answer
    B. Only humans have carried the cultural modification of primate life to its most elaborate and diverse extremes in a vast array of different settings
    Explanation
    Humans are considered 'animals with culture' because they have carried the cultural modification of primate life to its most elaborate and diverse extremes in various settings. This means that humans have developed complex social systems, languages, art, technology, and other cultural practices that are not observed in nonhuman animals. While nonhuman animal behavior is primarily instinctive and genetically hardwired, humans have the ability to create and transmit cultural knowledge, which sets them apart from other animals.

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  • 4. 

    In the textbook, the scope of cultural anthropology is defined to include

    • A.

      What’s inside people’s heads/minds – their ideas, beliefs, attitudes, notions, worldviews, assumptions, knowledge, perspectives, and values

    • B.

      What people do – their behavior, actions, traditions, customs, how they conduct and carry out their daily lives and long term affairs

    • C.

      What people make – the artifacts and objects they produce, the earthworks and buildings they build, the way they alter the landscape, etc.

    • D.

      The consequences of human beliefs and behavior for the individual, the group, and the environment, including both positive and negative consequences

    • E.

      All of the above

    Correct Answer
    E. All of the above
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "all of the above" because the scope of cultural anthropology includes studying what is inside people's minds, their behavior and actions, what they make, and the consequences of their beliefs and behavior. Cultural anthropologists examine not only the ideas and beliefs of a culture but also the practices, traditions, and customs that shape their daily lives. Additionally, they analyze the material culture produced by a society, such as artifacts and buildings, as well as the impact of human behavior on individuals, groups, and the environment. Therefore, all of these aspects are included within the scope of cultural anthropology.

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  • 5. 

    Archeologists have the same goals as cultural anthropologists, but they must use very different methods since their research subjects are ________.

    • A.

      Dead

    • B.

      Far away

    • C.

      Uncooperative

    • D.

      Suspicious

    Correct Answer
    A. Dead
    Explanation
    Archeologists have the same goals as cultural anthropologists, but they must use very different methods since their research subjects are dead. Archeologists study past human societies by examining artifacts, structures, and human remains. They rely on physical evidence to understand and reconstruct the lives of people who lived in the past. Cultural anthropologists, on the other hand, study living societies and focus on understanding the cultural practices, beliefs, and social structures of different groups. The fact that archeologists study dead subjects highlights the importance of material culture and the physical remains left behind by past civilizations.

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  • 6. 

    _______ anthropologist study human evolution and modern human biological variation and adaption

    • A.

      Linguistic

    • B.

      Cultural

    • C.

      Physical/biological

    • D.

      Applied

    Correct Answer
    C. pHysical/biological
    Explanation
    Physical/biological anthropologists study human evolution and modern human biological variation and adaptation. They focus on understanding the physical characteristics of humans, such as their skeletal structure, genetics, and physiological processes. This includes studying how humans have evolved over time and how they have adapted to different environments. Physical/biological anthropologists also explore the diversity of human populations and how factors like genetics, diet, and disease affect human biology. They use scientific methods and research techniques to gain insights into the physical aspects of human beings.

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  • 7. 

    ________ anthropologists turn their research interests and methodological expertise to the study of real-world problems, trying to come up with solutions that are feasible, sustainable, and just

    • A.

      Physical/biological

    • B.

      Cultural

    • C.

      Linguistic

    • D.

      Applied

    Correct Answer
    D. Applied
    Explanation
    Applied anthropologists focus on using their research and skills to address practical issues and find solutions that are practical, sustainable, and fair. They apply anthropological knowledge and methods to real-world problems, working with communities, organizations, and governments to develop strategies and interventions that can improve people's lives. Unlike physical/biological, cultural, and linguistic anthropologists who primarily study and analyze different aspects of human culture and society, applied anthropologists actively engage in problem-solving and aim to make a positive impact on society.

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  • 8. 

    Medical anthropology, nutritional anthropology, reproductive anthropology, and human behavioral ecology are all examples of anthropological research areas that use the _______________.

    • A.

      Symbolic synthetic stragegy

    • B.

      Biocultural approach

    • C.

      Applied/conditional theory

    • D.

      Critical race theory

    • E.

      Likert scale system

    Correct Answer
    B. Biocultural approach
    Explanation
    Anthropological research areas such as medical anthropology, nutritional anthropology, reproductive anthropology, and human behavioral ecology all utilize the biocultural approach. This approach recognizes the interplay between biological and cultural factors in understanding human behavior, health, and well-being. It emphasizes the importance of considering both biological and cultural influences in studying human populations, recognizing that these factors are interconnected and shape each other. By taking a biocultural approach, researchers can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics between biology and culture in shaping human experiences and behaviors.

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  • 9. 

    Material culture refers to the objects that people use, make, modify, or produce such as Northwest Coast Indian masks, IBM punch cards, and tall sailing ships.  Which branch of anthropology most heavily relies on material culture to figure out a group’s beliefs and behaviors?

    • A.

      Cultural anthro

    • B.

      Biological anthro

    • C.

      Archeology

    • D.

      Linguistic anthro

    • E.

      Medical anthro

    Correct Answer
    C. Archeology
    Explanation
    Archaeology heavily relies on material culture to figure out a group's beliefs and behaviors. Archaeologists study artifacts, structures, and other physical remains left behind by past societies in order to understand their cultural practices, social organization, and belief systems. By analyzing these material remains, archaeologists can reconstruct aspects of a group's daily life, religious practices, economic systems, and more.

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  • 10. 

    Every person's behavior is shaped by their own cultural and idiosyncratic beliefs as well as by

    • A.

      Other people

    • B.

      By access to resources

    • C.

      By laws and traditions

    • D.

      By threats of punishment or promises of rewards

    • E.

      All of the above

    Correct Answer
    E. All of the above
    Explanation
    Every person's behavior is influenced by their own cultural and idiosyncratic beliefs, which shape their values and norms. Additionally, other people play a significant role in shaping behavior through social interactions and peer pressure. Access to resources also affects behavior, as individuals may be motivated to act in certain ways to obtain or secure resources. Laws and traditions provide social guidelines and expectations, influencing behavior through societal norms and expectations. Finally, threats of punishment or promises of rewards can serve as external motivators, influencing behavior through the fear of consequences or the desire for rewards. Therefore, all of the options mentioned above contribute to shaping a person's behavior.

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  • 11. 

    Every “normal” human is born with the genetically-based ability to learn to understand and speak one or more languages, but the language(s) a person actually ends up learning and using depends on his/her specific cultural environment

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Every human is born with the ability to learn and speak one or more languages. However, the specific language(s) a person learns and uses is determined by their cultural environment. This means that if a person is born and raised in an English-speaking culture, they are more likely to learn and use English as their primary language. Therefore, the statement "Every 'normal' human is born with the genetically-based ability to learn to understand and speak one or more languages, but the language(s) a person actually ends up learning and using depends on his/her specific cultural environment" is true.

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  • 12. 

    Donald Brown’s book Human Universals lists a number of universal human characteristics that are the same in all human groups.  The following are true of the Universal People (UP) except:

    • A.

      The UP use the same facial expressions to show basic emotions such as happiness, anger, and fear

    • B.

      The UP always have religion and language and art

    • C.

      The UP mourn loved ones who have died

    • D.

      The UP always think that farting is hysterically funny

    • E.

      The UP think about and plan for the future

    Correct Answer
    D. The UP always think that farting is hysterically funny
    Explanation
    The correct answer is that the UP always think that farting is hysterically funny. This means that the Universal People do not universally find farting to be funny.

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  • 13. 

    The example of eating a Thanksgiving dinner in the U.S. consisting of roast turkey, stuffing/dressing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie, provides an excellent way to show that culture is

    • A.

      Learned

    • B.

      Shared

    • C.

      Patterned

    • D.

      Somewhat arbitrary

    • E.

      All of the above

    Correct Answer
    E. All of the above
    Explanation
    The example of eating a Thanksgiving dinner in the U.S. consisting of roast turkey, stuffing/dressing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie demonstrates that culture is learned because individuals acquire knowledge about traditional dishes and customs through socialization. It also shows that culture is shared because Thanksgiving dinner is a communal event that is celebrated and enjoyed by many people. Additionally, the example suggests that culture is patterned because there are specific rituals, foods, and traditions associated with Thanksgiving. Lastly, the example implies that culture is somewhat arbitrary because the specific foods and customs associated with Thanksgiving could vary across different cultures or regions.

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  • 14. 

    Because culture is socially constructed and learned rather than biologically inherited,

    • A.

      It can be transmitted from any one person to any other person, not just from parent to child

    • B.

      Anyone from any biological background can be raised in any cultural environment and learn that culture

    • C.

      Cultural beliefs can be changed as new information and perspectives are learned throughout an individual’s lifetime

    • D.

      Maladaptive cultural beliefs can be replaced with more adaptive ones at any time

    • E.

      All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. It can be transmitted from any one person to any other person, not just from parent to child
    Explanation
    Culture is not biologically inherited, but rather socially constructed and learned. This means that anyone, regardless of their biological background, can be raised in any cultural environment and learn that culture. Additionally, cultural beliefs can be changed as individuals learn new information and perspectives throughout their lifetime. This includes replacing maladaptive cultural beliefs with more adaptive ones. Therefore, the correct answer is that culture can be transmitted from any one person to any other person, not just from parent to child.

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  • 15. 

    Cultural anthropologists differ from other scientists such as sociologists and psychologists because they

    • A.

      Study people from all around the world

    • B.

      Use written surveys as their primary research tool

    • C.

      Focus their work on people living in the US

    • D.

      Study only people living in remote, exotic regions of the world

    • E.

      Use translators rather than learn the local language of their research site

    Correct Answer
    A. Study people from all around the world
    Explanation
    Cultural anthropologists differ from other scientists such as sociologists and psychologists because they study people from all around the world. Unlike sociologists who may focus on specific societies or psychologists who may focus on individual behavior, cultural anthropologists have a broader scope and aim to understand the diversity of human cultures across different geographical locations. They examine the beliefs, practices, and social structures of various societies to gain insights into the complexities of human culture and its variations. By studying people from all around the world, cultural anthropologists contribute to our understanding of the global human experience.

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  • 16. 

    Even though humans use culture to adapt to their environments, natural selection and other evolutionary forces such as mutation and random genetic drift continue to operate on humans, and humans continue to evolve biologically.

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The statement is true because although humans use culture to adapt to their environments, biological evolution still occurs. Natural selection, mutation, and random genetic drift are all evolutionary forces that continue to shape the human species. This means that genetic changes can still occur in human populations over time, leading to biological evolution.

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  • 17. 

    There are very few public pay telephones in the US any more

    • A.

      Cultural belief

    • B.

      Social structure

    Correct Answer
    B. Social structure
    Explanation
    The correct answer is social structure. This is because the availability of public pay telephones in a country is influenced by the social structure of that society. The social structure refers to the organization and hierarchy of social relationships and institutions within a society. In the case of public pay telephones, their decline in the US can be attributed to changes in communication technology and the rise of mobile phones, which have made them less necessary and less profitable. This reflects how the social structure and technological advancements can shape the availability and usage of certain services.

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  • 18. 

    It is not acceptable to eat spaghettic with ones hands

    • A.

      Cultural belief

    • B.

      Social structure

    Correct Answer
    A. Cultural belief
    Explanation
    The correct answer is cultural belief. Eating spaghetti with one's hands is considered unacceptable in many cultures due to the belief that it is improper or unhygienic. Cultural beliefs play a significant role in shaping social norms and behaviors, including dining etiquette. In some cultures, using utensils such as forks and spoons is seen as a sign of refinement and good manners, while eating with hands may be viewed as uncivilized or disrespectful. Therefore, the cultural belief that dictates proper table manners influences the perception of eating spaghetti with hands as unacceptable.

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  • 19. 

    in germany, dining out at a resaurant is supposed to be a leisurely, slow-paced, all-evening long event

    • A.

      Cultural belief

    • B.

      Social structure

    Correct Answer
    A. Cultural belief
    Explanation
    The given correct answer is "cultural belief". This suggests that in Germany, dining out at a restaurant is seen as a cultural belief, meaning it is deeply ingrained in the beliefs and values of the society. It is considered a leisurely and slow-paced activity, meant to be enjoyed and savored over the course of an entire evening. This cultural belief likely influences social norms and expectations around dining out in Germany.

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  • 20. 

    It is illegal to drive on the left side of the road in the US

    • A.

      Cultural belief

    • B.

      Social structure

    Correct Answer
    B. Social structure
    Explanation
    The correct answer is social structure. In the US, driving on the right side of the road is a social norm that is established and enforced by laws and regulations. The social structure of the country dictates that vehicles should drive on the right side for safety and order on the roads. This social structure is ingrained in the culture and is followed by the majority of the population. Therefore, driving on the left side of the road is considered illegal as it goes against the established social structure.

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  • 21. 

    In mali, there are always other adults around to watch as you interact with your spouse and children

    • A.

      Cultural belief

    • B.

      Social structure

    Correct Answer
    B. Social structure
    Explanation
    The correct answer is social structure. This is because the statement suggests that in Mali, there is a social structure in place where there are always other adults present to observe and monitor interactions between spouses and children. This implies that there is a societal expectation or norm for communal involvement in family life, highlighting the importance of social structure in shaping relationships and behaviors within the community.

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  • 22. 

    Only a childs parents should discipline the child when he is misbehaving

    • A.

      Cultural belief

    • B.

      Social structure

    Correct Answer
    A. Cultural belief
    Explanation
    The correct answer is cultural belief. This suggests that the belief that only a child's parents should discipline them when they are misbehaving is rooted in cultural norms and values. Different cultures may have different beliefs and practices regarding child discipline, and in this particular culture, it is believed that parents have the primary responsibility for disciplining their child. This cultural belief may influence how parents and other members of the community view and respond to child misbehavior.

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  • 23. 

    The main research tool of the cultural anthropologists is

    Correct Answer
    patient observation
    Explanation
    Cultural anthropologists primarily rely on patient observation as their main research tool. This involves spending extended periods of time immersing themselves within a particular culture or community, carefully observing and documenting various aspects of their daily lives, traditions, beliefs, and behaviors. Through patient observation, anthropologists can gain a deep understanding of the cultural context, social dynamics, and unique perspectives of the people they study. This method allows them to gather rich and detailed data that can be used to analyze and interpret cultural patterns, norms, and values.

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  • 24. 

    ________  a research methodology based on comparing information gathered by other anthropologists from a number of different societies

    Correct Answer
    ethnology
    Explanation
    Ethnology is a research methodology that involves comparing information gathered by different anthropologists from various societies. It focuses on studying and analyzing the similarities and differences between different cultures and societies. This approach helps to understand the broader patterns and trends in human behavior, social structures, and cultural practices across different societies. Ethnologists use this method to gain insights into the diversity of human cultures and to make generalizations about human societies as a whole.

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  • 25. 

    ________  a research methodology that can include listening and observing, taking part in activities, conducting individual or groups interviews using open-ended research questions, going on trips with people, helping people with their work, etc.

    Correct Answer
    participant observation
    Explanation
    Participant observation is a research methodology that involves actively participating in the activities and experiences of the subjects being studied. This can include observing and listening to their conversations, taking part in their activities, conducting interviews with open-ended questions, going on trips with them, and even assisting them in their work. It allows researchers to gain a deeper understanding of the social and cultural context in which the subjects operate, as well as their perspectives and behaviors. This method is particularly useful in qualitative research, as it provides rich and detailed data that can uncover insights and patterns that may not be apparent through other research methods.

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  • 26. 

    ________  just hanging out with people, talking to them, eavesdropping on nearby conversations, watching people as they carry out their daily activities

    Correct Answer
    accidental fieldwork
    Explanation
    Accidental fieldwork refers to the act of observing and interacting with people in a social setting without any prior intention or formal research plan. It involves casually observing and engaging with individuals, listening to their conversations, and observing their daily activities. This type of fieldwork can provide valuable insights and information about social dynamics and behavior.

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  • 27. 

    ________  the name for the standard practice of spending two or more years during graduate school conducting research among the people you are studying

    Correct Answer
    fieldwork
    Explanation
    Fieldwork is the term used to describe the standard practice of spending two or more years during graduate school conducting research among the people you are studying. It involves immersing oneself in the field of study, often living among the people being studied, in order to gather firsthand data and observations. Fieldwork is a crucial part of many academic disciplines, such as anthropology, sociology, and ethnography, as it allows researchers to gain a deep understanding of the subject matter and the context in which it exists.

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  • 28. 

    ________  written descriptions of human cultural beliefs and practices, such as Margaret Mead’s Coming of age in Samoa, or Lee Cronk’s From Mukogodo To Maasai: Ethnicity And Cultural Change In Kenya

    Correct Answer
    ethnography
    Explanation
    Ethnography refers to the written descriptions of human cultural beliefs and practices. It involves studying and documenting the customs, traditions, and behaviors of different societies or groups. Examples of ethnographic works include Margaret Mead's Coming of Age in Samoa, which explores the cultural practices of Samoan adolescents, and Lee Cronk's From Mukogodo to Maasai: Ethnicity and Cultural Change in Kenya, which examines the impact of cultural change on the Mukogodo and Maasai ethnic groups in Kenya. Ethnography aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of a particular culture or society through detailed observation and analysis.

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  • 29. 

    anthropological informants may give the researcher inaccurate information because

    • A.

      They find it amusing to fool the clueless visitor to their lives

    • B.

      Their actual behavior doesn’t match the cultural ideal of what they are supposed to do

    • C.

      They don’t really have a very good idea of how often they do something or how much time they spend on a particular activity

    • D.

      They don’t consider it any of the outsider’s business and may be suspicious of the researcher’s motives

    • E.

      All of the above

    Correct Answer
    E. All of the above
    Explanation
    The anthropological informants may give the researcher inaccurate information because they find it amusing to fool the clueless visitor to their lives, their actual behavior doesn’t match the cultural ideal of what they are supposed to do, they don’t really have a very good idea of how often they do something or how much time they spend on a particular activity, and they don’t consider it any of the outsider’s business and may be suspicious of the researcher’s motives.

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  • 30. 

    If humans set up cultural systems that contradict their underlying biological nature, there will be negative consequences ranging from stress to illness and death.  Which of the following are examples of human cultural systems that have negative consequences for human health?

    • A.

      Children sleeping by themselves in cribs (rather than with mother)

    • B.

      The use of infant formula( instead of breastfeeding)

    • C.

      Smoking

    • D.

      Drinking

    • E.

      All of the above

    Correct Answer
    E. All of the above
    Explanation
    All of the above examples are human cultural systems that have negative consequences for human health. Children sleeping by themselves in cribs can lead to increased stress and difficulty in forming secure attachments. The use of infant formula instead of breastfeeding can result in a higher risk of infections and chronic diseases for infants. Smoking and drinking are well-known health hazards that can lead to various illnesses and even death.

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  • 31. 

    Many people in the U.S. think that infant formula is a perfectly adequate and equally healthy substitute for a baby’s own mother’s breast milk.  In fact, close to ________ children in the U.S. die each year because they were not exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life, as recommended by all health experts.

    • A.

      0

    • B.

      10

    • C.

      100

    • D.

      1000

    • E.

      A million

    Correct Answer
    D. 1000
    Explanation
    Many people in the U.S. believe that infant formula is a suitable replacement for breast milk. However, the correct answer suggests that this belief is incorrect. The answer states that close to 1000 children in the U.S. die each year because they were not exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life, as recommended by health experts. This implies that infant formula is not an equally healthy substitute for breast milk and can have severe consequences for infants.

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  • 32. 

    When anthropologists try to understand a particular feature of culture by looking at what universal human problem it solves for people (and how it does so), they are using which type of theoretical approach?

    • A.

      Structural-functionalism

    • B.

      Historical particularism

    • C.

      Symbolic anthro

    • D.

      Post-modernism

    Correct Answer
    A. Structural-functionalism
    Explanation
    Anthropologists who try to understand a particular feature of culture by examining how it solves universal human problems are using a structural-functionalism theoretical approach. This approach focuses on the functions and purposes of cultural elements within a society, emphasizing how they contribute to the overall stability and cohesion of the social system. By analyzing the ways in which cultural practices and institutions fulfill basic human needs, anthropologists can gain insight into the underlying structures and functions of a society.

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  • 33. 

    When anthropologists try to understand a particular feature of culture by looking at exactly how and why a particular system developed the way it did in a particular time and place, they are using which type of theoretical approach?

    • A.

      Structural-functionalsim

    • B.

      Historical particularism

    • C.

      Symbolic anthro

    • D.

      Post-modernism

    Correct Answer
    B. Historical particularism
    Explanation
    Historical particularism is the correct answer because it refers to the approach used by anthropologists to study a particular feature of culture by examining the specific historical context in which it developed. This approach focuses on understanding the unique factors and circumstances that shaped the development of a cultural system in a specific time and place. By analyzing the historical context, anthropologists can gain insights into the reasons why a particular system developed the way it did.

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  • 34. 

    Claude Lévi-Strauss (human brains like to think in opposites) and Mary Douglas (things not easily classified are powerful) are associated with which type of theoretical approach in anthropology?

    • A.

      Strucutural- functionalism

    • B.

      Historical particulism

    • C.

      Post modernism

    • D.

      Symbolic anthro

    Correct Answer
    D. Symbolic anthro
    Explanation
    Claude Lévi-Strauss and Mary Douglas are associated with symbolic anthropology because they both focus on the symbolic meanings and classifications of cultural phenomena. Lévi-Strauss believed that human brains naturally categorize the world into binary oppositions, while Douglas emphasized the power and significance of things that are difficult to classify within a cultural system. Symbolic anthropology examines how symbols and meanings shape human behavior and social structures.

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  • 35. 

    Arno van Voorst used what example as an analogy for why the people living in a particular time and place, and behaving in a particular way, may have no idea about how their social structure came into being, or why they do things the way they do, other than “tradition.”

    • A.

      People’s memories are not to be trusted, and no two people will remember events in the same way

    • B.

      Once a collection of animals are gathered together in a zoo, it is no longer apparent where they came from

    • C.

      Once a building is erected, the cranes and scaffolding used to build it are removed

    • D.

      In many circumstances, all the historical records have been destroyed by flood or fire

    • E.

      All of the above

    Correct Answer
    C. Once a building is erected, the cranes and scaffolding used to build it are removed
    Explanation
    The analogy used by Arno van Voorst is that once a building is erected, the cranes and scaffolding used to build it are removed. This means that once a social structure is established, the elements that contributed to its formation may no longer be visible or apparent. Just like the cranes and scaffolding are no longer visible once the building is complete, the historical factors or events that shaped a society may be forgotten or lost over time. This lack of visibility can lead to a reliance on tradition as the explanation for why things are done a certain way.

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  • 36. 

    Victor Turner and Mary Douglas’s concept of things betwixt and between notes that objects, creatures, and ideas that are not easily classified into one category or another in a binary (dichotomous) system, may be accorded great power.  All of the following are examples of betwixt and between things except

    • A.

      The sun and the moon

    • B.

      Dawn and dusk

    • C.

      Flying fish and bats

    • D.

      Pigs and camels

    • E.

      Tidal mud flats

    Correct Answer
    A. The sun and the moon
    Explanation
    The sun and the moon are not examples of betwixt and between things because they can easily be classified into one category or another in a binary system. The sun is classified as a star and the moon is classified as a satellite. They do not fall into the category of objects, creatures, or ideas that are not easily classified.

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  • 37. 

    All human groups who live on tropical islands, or all those who live at high altitude, or all those who live in deserts, will share some aspects of culture, including knowledge about the environment, because they

    • A.

      All have the same level of technological sophistication

    • B.

      Live in similar biomes

    • C.

      Have similar religious beliefs

    • D.

      All speak the same language

    • E.

      None of the above

    Correct Answer
    B. Live in similar biomes
    Explanation
    Human groups who live in similar biomes, such as tropical islands, high altitudes, or deserts, will share some aspects of culture because they are exposed to similar environmental conditions. The environment plays a significant role in shaping culture, as it influences the available resources, climate, and challenges that people face. Therefore, living in similar biomes leads to the development of similar knowledge, practices, and adaptations to the environment, resulting in shared aspects of culture among these groups.

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  • 38. 

    Many different groups of people around the world, such as the Kurds, do not feel any special connection to the nation-state they live in because

    • A.

      They are recent immigrants, with loyalties to their home country

    • B.

      Their nation state has only been in existence for a short time

    • C.

      Their nation-state is an artificial creation, designated by others

    • D.

      Some members of their tribe or ethnic group were arbitrarily placed into another country when boundaries were drawn

    • E.

      All of the above

    Correct Answer
    E. All of the above
    Explanation
    Many different groups of people around the world, such as the Kurds, do not feel any special connection to the nation-state they live in due to various reasons. Some may be recent immigrants, with loyalties to their home country. Others may feel disconnected because their nation-state has only been in existence for a short time. Additionally, some groups may view their nation-state as an artificial creation designated by others. Lastly, members of certain tribes or ethnic groups may have been arbitrarily placed into another country when boundaries were drawn. Therefore, all of the above reasons contribute to why these groups do not feel a special connection to their nation-state.

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  • 39. 

    Tribal membership or ethnicity is likely to be the most important feature of identity for people who live on or near their ancestral lands, among other people who share the same tribal or ethnic identity, religious beliefs, language, etc., such as the Hopi of Arizona or the Dani of highland New Guinea.

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Tribal membership or ethnicity being the most important feature of identity for people who live on or near their ancestral lands is likely true because it is mentioned that they share the same tribal or ethnic identity, religious beliefs, language, etc. This suggests that their tribal or ethnic identity plays a significant role in shaping their sense of identity and belonging.

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  • 40. 

    Members of which two U.S. states have strong state level culture, as indicated by their willingness to talk about seceding from the United States.

    • A.

      Montana and georgia

    • B.

      Delaware and new mexico

    • C.

      Texas and alaska

    • D.

      North and south dakota

    Correct Answer
    C. Texas and alaska
    Explanation
    Texas and Alaska are the correct answer because these two states have a history and cultural identity that includes a strong sense of independence. Both states have a unique history of being independent territories before joining the United States, and they have a strong belief in states' rights and limited federal government interference. This is reflected in the willingness of some residents in these states to discuss the possibility of secession from the United States.

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  • 41. 

    In the United States, “white folks” currently form the majority of the population overall.  They are viewed as the standard, the mode, the unmarked category.  This explains, in part, why the aisle in the food store that contains foods typical of Mexican, Indian, or Chinese cuisines may be labeled ________ foods.

    Correct Answer
    ethnic
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "ethnic" because the term "ethnic" is commonly used to refer to foods that are specific to a particular culture or ethnicity, such as Mexican, Indian, or Chinese cuisines. By labeling this aisle as "ethnic foods," it acknowledges that these cuisines are not the standard or default, but rather represent the diverse cultural backgrounds of different ethnic groups.

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  • 42. 

    Today, the category of African American is usually understood to refer to the descendants of people brought to the New World as slaves from the coastal regions of western Africa, with some admixture from European and Native American populations.  Under such a definition, is Barack Obama an African American?

    • A.

      Yes

    • B.

      No

    Correct Answer
    B. No
    Explanation
    According to the given definition, African Americans are the descendants of slaves brought from western Africa. Barack Obama's father was from Kenya, which is not a coastal region of western Africa. Therefore, he does not fit the definition of an African American.

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  • 43. 

    Anthropologists recognize that many people who have never studied anthropology think that culture is the same thing as ethnic identity.  Anthropologists would

    • A.

      Agree, saying that the two concepts mean the same thing

    • B.

      Disagree, arguing that a persons culture includes many other aspects of identity besides ethnicity

    Correct Answer
    B. Disagree, arguing that a persons culture includes many other aspects of identity besides ethnicity
    Explanation
    Anthropologists disagree with the idea that culture is the same as ethnic identity because they argue that a person's culture encompasses more than just their ethnicity. Culture includes various aspects such as language, beliefs, values, customs, and practices that are shared by a group of people. Ethnic identity refers to the sense of belonging and identification with a particular ethnic group, which is just one aspect of a person's overall cultural identity. Anthropologists recognize that culture is a complex and multifaceted concept that goes beyond ethnicity.

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  • 44. 

    Anthropologists would say: “All hair care products are ethnic, all foods are ethnic, and all clothing is ethnic.  All God’s children got ethnicity.”

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    This statement suggests that anthropologists believe that all hair care products, foods, and clothing are associated with a particular ethnicity. It implies that everything related to these categories is influenced by cultural or ethnic backgrounds. Therefore, the correct answer is true.

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  • 45. 

    The members of every culture tend to view their own way of life as being “natural” and the best way to do things.  This is known as  __________________________.

    • A.

      Cultural relativism

    • B.

      The sapir-whorf hypothesis

    • C.

      Evolution by natural selection

    • D.

      Ethnocentrism

    • E.

      Arachnophobia

    Correct Answer
    D. Ethnocentrism
    Explanation
    Ethnocentrism refers to the belief that one's own culture is superior to others and that its way of life is the most natural and best way to do things. It involves judging other cultures based on the standards and values of one's own culture, often leading to a biased and narrow perspective. This can result in a lack of understanding and appreciation for cultural diversity and can hinder cross-cultural interactions and cooperation.

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  • 46. 

    Most anthropologists describe some degree of ethnocentrism as being natural and understandable: “Of course we view our way of life as the best, the only right way to live.”  Ishmael, the gorilla from Daniel Quinn’s novel, would disagree, saying that for most of human existence, all people lived as nonethnocentric ________________.

    • A.

      Takers

    • B.

      Leavers

    • C.

      Exchangers

    • D.

      Fisherman

    • E.

      Baboons

    Correct Answer
    B. Leavers
    Explanation
    Most anthropologists describe some degree of ethnocentrism as being natural and understandable: "Of course we view our way of life as the best, the only right way to live." Ishmael, the gorilla from Daniel Quinn's novel, would disagree, saying that for most of human existence, all people lived as nonethnocentric leavers. This means that they lived in harmony with their environment, taking only what they needed and not exploiting or dominating other cultures or the natural world. Ishmael argues that it is only in recent history that humans have become ethnocentric and destructive, causing harm to themselves and the planet.

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  • 47. 

    Cultural relativism is part of a perspective that says the point of studying other cultures and other peoples is to understand them – their assumptions, their knowledge, their values, their goals – not to judge them based on your own beliefs and perspectives.

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Cultural relativism is a perspective that emphasizes understanding other cultures without imposing one's own beliefs and values onto them. It suggests that the purpose of studying other cultures is to gain insight into their unique perspectives, knowledge, and goals, rather than judging them based on one's own beliefs. Therefore, the statement that cultural relativism is part of a perspective that aims to understand rather than judge other cultures is true.

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  • 48. 

    In order to be a good cultural anthropologist, one must agree that

    • A.

      All cultures are equal

    • B.

      All values are acceptable

    • C.

      Whatever other people do, however they behave, is hunky dory becasue thats simply their way of life

    • D.

      One shouldnt pass judgment on other peoples culture

    • E.

      None of the above

    Correct Answer
    E. None of the above
    Explanation
    Being a good cultural anthropologist does not require agreeing that all cultures are equal or that all values are acceptable. It also does not mean that one should blindly accept and approve of any behavior simply because it is part of another culture. Instead, cultural anthropologists strive to understand and analyze different cultures objectively, without passing judgment. Therefore, the correct answer is "none of the above".

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  • 49. 

    The first step in adopting the standpoint of cultural relativism is to realize that not everyone shares the same beliefs, assumptions, and knowledge about the world and that not everyone values the same things, or has the same goals.  What is the second step?

    • A.

      Learning not to judge other people

    • B.

      Changing you own beliefs and practices

    • C.

      Realizing that most of the time, peoples behavior makes sense when viewed from their perspective

    • D.

      Realizing that many people act in irrational and nonsensical ways

    • E.

      All of the above

    Correct Answer
    C. Realizing that most of the time, peoples behavior makes sense when viewed from their perspective
    Explanation
    The second step in adopting the standpoint of cultural relativism is realizing that most of the time, people's behavior makes sense when viewed from their perspective. This means understanding that different cultures have their own set of values, beliefs, and practices that may seem irrational or nonsensical to outsiders, but have a logical explanation within their cultural context. By recognizing this, one can avoid judging others based on their own cultural biases and instead strive to understand and appreciate different perspectives.

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  • 50. 

    In the textbook, culture shock is described is being partly the result of the failure of our ________ to work the way it usually does to help us navigate our interactions with others.

    • A.

      Cultural road map

    • B.

      Theory of mind

    • C.

      Ethnocentrism

    • D.

      Diacritical eclectism

    • E.

      GPS

    Correct Answer
    B. Theory of mind
    Explanation
    Culture shock is described as the result of the failure of our theory of mind to work the way it usually does to help us navigate our interactions with others. Theory of mind refers to our ability to understand and attribute mental states to others, such as beliefs, desires, and intentions. In a new cultural environment, our usual understanding of others' thoughts and behaviors may not apply, leading to confusion and disorientation, which are characteristic of culture shock.

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  • Current Version
  • Mar 21, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Sep 22, 2011
    Quiz Created by
    Tklein124
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