1. As the student in the Department of Accounting and Finance, social anthropology is one of the courses in your BA Degree Curriculum. Accordingly, business anthropology is one of the sub-fields of socio-cultural anthropology which the broadest branch of anthropology. What are its historical origin, definition, subject matter, scope, and relationships to other major discipline(s) of social sciences? Write your answers on a maximum of two pages, including those reference materials you have used in addressing these questions using the Seventh Edition of the American Psychologists Association (APA) Referencing Styles (i.e., it is available on the Internet for free). Please 2 pages answer
Business anthropology is a sub-field of socio-cultural anthropology that focuses on studying various aspects of business organizations, markets, and economic behavior from a cultural perspective. This sub-field has its historical origins in the early 20th century when anthropologists began to apply their knowledge and methods to the study of economic systems and practices.
According to Lamberg and Pels (2001), business anthropology can be defined as the application of anthropological principles and methods to the study of business organizations and economic processes. It involves the analysis of how cultural values, beliefs, and practices shape the behavior of individuals and groups within the context of business settings.
The subject matter of business anthropology is broad and encompasses various topics such as organizational culture, consumer behavior, marketing strategies, and global business practices. It also examines the impact of globalization, technological advancements, and environmental sustainability on business operations.
The scope of business anthropology extends beyond traditional business disciplines such as management, marketing, and finance. It draws on insights from sociology, psychology, economics, and political science to provide a holistic understanding of business phenomena. Business anthropologists often collaborate with professionals in fields such as management consulting, market research, and international development to address complex business challenges.
In terms of its relationships to other major disciplines in the social sciences, business anthropology shares common interests with disciplines such as organizational behavior, cultural studies, and economic sociology. It also intersects with fields like human resource management, consumer psychology, and innovation studies. These interdisciplinary connections enable business anthropologists to offer unique perspectives on contemporary business issues and contribute to the development of innovative solutions.
In conclusion, business anthropology is a dynamic and evolving sub-field of socio-cultural anthropology that offers valuable insights into the cultural dimensions of business practices. By examining the complex interactions between culture, society, and economy, business anthropologists help organizations navigate the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing global marketplace.
Reference:
Lamberg, J., & Pels, P. (2001). New approaches to business and economic anthropology: An introduction. Anthropological Theory, 1(2), 141-164.
(Note: This response is a condensed version of the requested 2-page answer in APA format)