Anthropology is an interdisciplinary study of humans, their cultures, civilizations, and biological traits. It includes many subfields such as cultural anthropology, biological anthropology, linguistic anthropology, and archaeology. Here is a departmental profile highlighting Anthropology's primary areas of focus:
Cultural anthropology is the study of human societies' various beliefs, practises, and behaviours throughout time and location. It investigates kinship, religion, politics, economy, gender, and the effects of globalisation on cultural dynamics. To comprehend and chronicle the intricacies of human culture, cultural anthropologists perform fieldwork and use ethnographic methods.
Biological Anthropology: Biological anthropology is the study of human biology, encompassing evolution, genetics, primatology, and forensic anthropology. It investigates human diversity, interactions between humans and their environments, and the link between biology and culture. Biological anthropologists use natural science methodologies to investigate human biological diversity and evolutionary history.
Linguistic Anthropology: The study of language in its social and cultural environment is the subject of linguistic anthropology. It investigates the ways in which language forms and reflects human thought, communication, and identity. Linguistic anthropologists study language use, sociolinguistics, language acquisition, and the interaction between language and culture.
Archaeology: The study of human history and prehistory via the excavation, analysis, and interpretation of material remains is known as archaeology. Archaeologists study historical civilizations, cultural landscapes, and artefacts to reconstruct and comprehend past societies. They date and analyse archaeological artefacts using a variety of scientific approaches.
Applied Anthropology is the application of anthropological knowledge and methodologies to modern societal difficulties and challenges. Working with communities, organisations, and governments to provide insights and answers to challenges in healthcare, development, education, sustainability, and cultural preservation is part of the job.
Research and Fieldwork: Anthropology departments often emphasize hands-on research and fieldwork. Students may have opportunities to participate in ethnographic field studies, archaeological excavations, laboratory research, and community-based projects. Field experiences provide valuable practical skills and firsthand exposure to the complexities of anthropological research.
Collaborations Across Disciplines: Anthropology routinely collaborates with other disciplines such as sociology, psychology, history, geography, environmental studies, and public health. This interdisciplinary approach fosters collaborations and research efforts across academic fields, allowing for a broader understanding of human behaviour, culture, and society.
The Department of Anthropology was established in 2007. At the undergraduate level, the Department provides a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology (Honours and Regular), as well as Bachelor of Science. In addition, we provide Higher Secondary (Arts and Science) programme. Currently, the department entails three qualified and experienced faculty members.
The department adheres to the syllabus established by the affiliating University i.e.Gauhati University.
The Department of Anthropology at BBK College provides both qualitative and practical opportunities in Anthropology. With a significant number of practical equipment and a well-equipped laboratory as well as a museum, students who want to comprehend human and nature are invited to study Anthropology.
Students are encouraged to conduct field research and create new work.
Along with a regular schedule, teachers and students organise seminars, workshops, field trips and picnics.