Business Anthropology References

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Wayne State University: Business and Organizational Anthropology

Anthropology and Business: Reflections on the business applications of cultural anthropology; Dipak Pant, Fernando Alberti ; June 1997

Business anthropology; Ann Jordan; 2003

University of North Texas: Business Anthropology

Anthropology and Business

ANTHROPOLOGY & BUSINESS

It has been an interesting experience becoming involved with entrepreneurship, business, and learning the do’s and don’ts of this type of environment in contrast to the skills and information I have learned in the social sciences. It seems as if there really are two vastly different types of thinking in these two worlds. I’ve come to realize that it is possible to learn the traits valued within each discipline and to ‘wear’ them when the situation calls for it.

With the study of anthropology, we learn to be trained observers. We also learn to be careful about knee-jerk judgments in order to be sure that we’re seeing the entire picture (or as much of it as possible) and not simply placing our own opinions or values onto the others. The research process focuses on the importance of analyzing the data carefully and being sure not to draw conclusions that are unfounded. In business and entrepreneurship, on the other hand, quick decisions and risk taking are necessary. This field calls for constant innovation and a trial-and-error type approach in order to move the venture along as quickly as possible. More than one entrepreneurship teacher has used the slogan “If you are going to fail, fail fast”, and then move on to the next idea.

Although these two different disciplines seem so very different, and in many ways are, common ground can still be found in some aspects. Anthropologists and business people must both step outside their comfort zones often and must be able to gain strangers’ trust. The anthropologist must gain the trust of his or her informants or research subjects, the business person must gain the trust of his or her customers. The anthropologist steps outside their comfort zone in order to submerse themselves within a completely new environment and culture, and are often confronted with beliefs, practices, or actions that conflict with their own values. The business person steps outside their comfort zone by doing what it takes to make the networking connections necessary for the success of their venture.

Personally I have found it a valuable learning experience becoming so actively involved in another discipline. When I first began last September, I was only able to see the differences between the two disciplines. A much deeper understanding has evolved since I am now able to see the commonalities.

by Jennifer Jones

How Anthropology Affects Business

When you think of an anthropologist, you are likely to imagine a fellow in an Indiana Jones getup lost in the Amazonian jungle. However, you are equally likely to find an anthropologist wearing an Armani suit while he tries to break the codes, taboos and traditions of the corporate jungle. The rules of anthropology are valid for every culture, even within the Wall Street tribe.

 

The Human Dimension of Business

• The word "anthropology" comes from Greek roots that translate as "the study of humans". While accountants, financers and marketers will sometimes forget that they are dealing with persons and not numbers, anthropologists will, by definition, remember that organizations and structures are ultimately made by and for human beings.

  Anthropology deals with the shared sets of beliefs and values of a common group of people. While this is usually taken to mean language, taboos and religious beliefs, anthropology can also focus on more businesslike questions like the types of food one eats and the clothes that one wears.

Place, space, and everything in between: The use of Proxemics in Branding

By Gavin Johnston, Two West Chief Anthropologist

Corporate Anthropology: its applications

Anthropology studies the human being widely through scientific and humanistic methods. So, how does this discipline apply to business organizations? 

The Growth and Future of Business Anthropology

Business Anthropolgy

Business anthropology

Anthropologists are experts in people and their habits, their particular research approach enabling them an “inside” view on cultures. 

Business anthropology  transfers anthropological approaches into companies and  organisations  utilizing traditional anthropological methodologies  inclusive of  participant observation.


Anthropologists are of the view that everything is connected

Business anthropology is significant in solving the following issues: