Expert: Ralph Salier - 9/20/2010

Question
QUESTION: Hi Ralph,
1- Would the work of an applied social-cultural anthropologist be easily replaced by a social osychologist?
2- I know this is a bit weird question but would uyou know if there is any demand for applied anthropologists in Jordan (the country)?
Thanks,
Hashem

ANSWER: Hi Hashem,

Social Psychology is under the umbrella of Applied Cultural Anthro. It is a sub-set of Psychology.  Thus, a Socio-cultural Anthropologist would look at a much broader set of behaviors and interacions beyond that of a social-psychologist.

There is a demand for applied anthropologists across the world but it may not have that title.  It could be international negotiator, global supply chain manager, cultural protocol agent, world music critic, etc... All of these titles would incorporate a large measure of applied anth.

I am sure that in Jordan, with interactions across the Arab world as well as Israel amd Europe, the need for cross cultural understanding and knowledge is needed, you just need to ferrit out.

I hope this helps, if I can be of further assistance, please let me know.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: First of all, thanks a lot for the helpful answer.
I perhaps should specify my issue a bit more. Right now, I'm starting my third year in university and I have to decide a major before the 26th. I have more than one interest among them is psychology, anthropology and near and middle eastern civilizations. I will probably major in psychology. I need to decide a minor now. Is it "Near and middle eastern civilizations" or "anthropology"? Would you say it's a better strategic move NOT to minor in anthropology becuase , even if I wanted to do the work of anthropologists in the future, I could access that thru a background in social psychology, especially that job positions are not normally advertised under the label of "anthropologist" ?
Thanks again,
Hashem

Answer
HI Hashem,

I would recommend Anthropology as this will give you a broader outlook then the more narrowly focused Near/Middle eastern studies.  Recognizing that as the world shrinks and the need for more cross cultural understanding grows, anthropology will provide a much better grounding for this to occur.  In any case, be sure that you take comparative religions and how religions impact culture so that you have a more rounded experience with this aspect of cultures. Additionally, I would also recommend some economics, statistics and perhaps international business to gain the broadest possible perspective with in your degree area.

I hpe this helps.