How is american materialism related to anthropology?

Question

How is american materialism related to anthropology?

Answer 1

There is a cultural habit of acquiring the latest and discarding the outdated or out of fashion.  In 10,000 years this will make our dumps to be a treasure trove for archaeologist and anthropologist..

At present, American materialism leads to many people to have an interest in and collecting artifacts and replicas.  Without this interest, anthropology would get less support and funding.  Admittedly for many this interest in the way people live is more of a hobby than a true concern, yet it broadens horizons.

Answer 2

Well, I would say that it is related by the fact that american materialism is an aspect of a certain human culture, and anthropology is the study of human cultures/behaviors. Also you could argue that anthropological studies have been misused and even commissioned by commercially motivated corporations to help them develop new techniques for marketing their products. Being that american materialism is driven by these corporations, I would say that constitutes a link.