Cultural Anthropology, Essay Example

Introduction

Cultural anthropology relates to the study of different people and their culture, beliefs and economies.  Researchers have focused studies on both industrial and post-industrial societies. The study also embraces areas of politics and religion.  Recent studies have focused upon the political unrest in both North Africa and the Middle East.  The particular focus upon the demands of youth in these regions has had a profound impact on long held values of religion, politics, sociology and economics of the regions affected.  (Allison).

Cultural Anthropology – Influence of Youth

Youth culture has formed an important part of 20^th century anthropological research but before this time it was largely ignored.  Recent events has illustrated how modern communications like computers, cell phones, and social media sites have had a profound effect on developing youth education, awareness and forums for debate on a truly global scale.  Modernity and globalization has placed youth culture into a new sociological context as such it has increased their visibility and opinion in a modern capitalistic society.  This has resulted in the demand for increased equity and more accountability for Government actions. (Bucholtz).

The recent riots being experienced in England are a result of a disenchanted youth structure that has rallied against unemployment, lack of education and a government they feel has forsaken them in times of a severe economic downturn.  This stems beyond the social classification of hooliganism to carefully orchestrated campaigns using technology as a means to organise a sustained citizen revolt. (Mitchell).

Conclusion

Globalization has increased the interest in concepts of cultural anthropology.  The concepts of a more integrated and diverse set of cultures has resulted in close examination of the interaction between peoples beliefs, religions, politics and tolerances in understanding one another and ability to create international trading relationships.

Works Cited

Allison, C. Piot and A. “Cultural Anthropology & Youth.” Cultural Anthropology Vol 26 Iss 3 (2011): 1360-1548.

Bucholtz, Mary. “Youth and Cultural Practice.” Annual Review of Anthropology, Vol 31 (2002): 525-552.

Mitchell, Dan. Riots in England Are another Sign of the Looming Collapse of Europe’s Welfare States. 10 12 2010. 9 8 2011 <http://danieljmitchell.wordpress.com/2010/12/10/riots-in-england-are-another-sign-of-the-looming-collapse-of-europes-welfare-states/>.