5 Ways Cultural Anthropology Shapes Your Life Today

1. Food Choices & Diets

When you walk into an ethnic neighborhood, you often see the grocery store matching the food necessities of the people. For example, when you enter a South Asian neighborhood, you would see turmeric, ghee, and such items in the local grocery stores. These products would have the labels of “Indian spices” or “veg alternatives”, etc. This is a result of anthropology studies on how food is connected to culture and geography. Such examples of anthropology can also be applied to labels such as “fair trade” which comes from anthropologist’s studying global supply chains, understanding the advantages and disadvantages to farmers, laborers, manufacturers, etc. Studying such relationships has a huge role in benefiting the lives of people in these groups. Anthropologists studying these issues and eventually publishing them, gives governments and lawmakers a better understanding of these problems to potentially make changes. Another example of how anthropological studies can improve the lives of people is when it comes to studying food deserts and inequality. Many areas do not have access to the same quality of food that comes from marginalization of specific racial or ethnic groups. Everyone deserves access to fresh produce, and food that does not cause a range of health problems in the future. These ideas are studied by anthropologists who ask questions relating to affordability, responsibility of these problems, and broader ideas on how culture, race, and financial status affects what you can and cannot buy, specifically in the case of food. 

2. Fashion & Identity

When it comes to South Asian clothing, new trends of clothes labelled “Indo-western” are becoming popular. These are clothes with Indian patterns and needle work but instead of the work being on a saree, we can see on blazers and palazzo pants. Or not just on lenghas but with a collared jacket or cardigan that goes with it. Such trends are studied by anthropologists, and are extremely useful to fashion companies. This is especially relevant with the movement of South Asian clothing and designs being misrepresented in larger fashion companies. Brands like Zara, Gucci, Prada, have obvious South Asian influences in their fashion lines, without the deserved credit going to South Asia. This can be seen with lengha silhouettes being copied, to the origin of kolapuri sandals being lied about by Prada. Such cultural misrepresentation is also studied by anthropologists who work to ensure that recognition is given to the right artisans and culture. 

3. Workplace Management & Communication

With increased globalization, migration, and cultural interaction in the workplace, communication is key to managing workplaces. Anthropologists pushed for DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) programs in companies that have various positive impacts. They promote companies to hire a more diverse range of applicants; with people from various cultures in a company, preventing miscommunication is an important step; and lastly, for companies to better understand cultural responsibilities pertaining to families, holidays, and more. These programs were brought to light during Covid-19 when anthropological studies answered questions and disagreements relating to cultural interpretations of having cameras turned-off, interruptions of zoom, etc. 

4. Healthcare & Wellness

South Asian anthropology research in the medical field is able to help improve many lives. Research focused on South Asian lifestyle helps to explain the higher rates of diabetes among South Asians, for example. This allows doctors and medical professionals to better cater to the needs of South Asian diabetic patients. This is especially relevant due to the differences in South Asian diets. For instance, Hindus often do not eat beef or red meat, and Jains do not eat meat at all and also avoid onions, potatoes, and garlic. Recognizing these differences allows for more personalized care, better treatment plans, and healthier outcomes. Furthermore, increased research and awareness of South Asian lifestyles has led to better support for mental health. This research has helped mental health professionals better understand South Asian communities, beliefs, expectations, responsibilities, and the stigmas that may prevent individuals from seeking help.

5. Cultural Awareness in Media

Film industries often hire anthropologists or use anthropology research to ensure accurate cultural representation in movies, shows, etc. They review scripts, music, gestures, backgrounds, language, and more to ensure respectful representation. This can be seen in various movies like Black Panther, Moana, Ms. Marvel, and more. The research is extremely important for such movies, as so much of the movie's plot, acting, and script, all depend on regional folklore, history, culture, and more. Additionally, the research helps these movies gain a larger audience. When people see an accurate representation of their culture, they are more likely to watch the movie and connect with it.