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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Ethnology and Anthropology?

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Ethnology and anthropology are closely related fields that focus on the study of human cultures and societies. However, there are some differences between the two:

  1. Scope: Anthropology is an overarching discipline that encompasses various sub-fields, including cultural anthropology, linguistic anthropology, archaeology, and biological anthropology. Ethnology, on the other hand, is a sub-field of cultural anthropology that specifically focuses on the study of particular cultures.
  2. Focus: Anthropology deals with both natural and socio-cultural elements concerning human beings, including their genetic makeup, culture, religion, politics, and language. Ethnology is concerned with the study of the characteristics of different peoples.
  3. Methodology: While ethnography is generally considered a methodology employed by anthropologists, it is often used interchangeably with ethnology, which is a type of approach to understanding a culture by observing it directly or analyzing the experiences of those within the culture.

In summary, anthropology is a broader field that includes various sub-disciplines, while ethnology is a specific sub-field of cultural anthropology that focuses on the study of particular cultures. Ethnography is a methodological approach used by anthropologists to learn about a culture or setting.

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  • What is the Difference Between Ethnology and Anthropology?
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    • Comparative Table: Ethnology vs Anthropology

    Ethnology and Anthropology are closely related fields, but they have distinct focuses. Here is a table highlighting the differences between the two:

    Feature Ethnology Anthropology
    Definition Ethnology is the systematic collection, comparison, and contrast of ethnographies. Anthropology is the study of humankind, encompassing various sub-fields such as cultural anthropology, linguistic anthropology, biological anthropology, and archaeology.
    Scope Ethnology focuses on the comparative study of ethnographic data, society, and culture. Anthropology is a broader field that studies the unity and diversity of humankind, including physical measurements, language, and culture.
    Methods Ethnologists analyze data from ethnographies, which are in-depth studies of a particular cultural group. Anthropologists use various methods, including ethnography, linguistic analysis, biological measurements, and archaeological excavations, to study human societies and cultures.
    Aim Ethnology aims to understand the similarities and differences between various cultural groups and societies. Anthropology aims to understand the fundamental aspects of humanity, including commonalities and differences among humans.

    In summary, ethnology is a sub-field of anthropology that focuses on the comparative study of ethnographic data, while anthropology is a broader field that encompasses various sub-fields and methods to study the unity and diversity of humankind.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.