I want to become a physical anthropologist

Question

Right now I major in anthropology and I would like to eventually go into the field of physical anthropology and study human evolution. I live in the Bible belt of Texas, though, and I get a lot of nasty comments when I tell people this. How can I tactfully deflect these comments? I'm not trying to tell them creationism is wrong or anything, but many people are still very closed-minded when it comes to the theory of evolution. Is there a way I can voice my career goals to people without offending them? I just talked to someone who really made me feel awful about what I want to do.

Answer 1

don't mention the word evolution. Tell them that physical anthropology is the study of civilization digging up ruins and stuff and leave it at that. or move to San Francisco. and join my daughter at San Francisco State. they have a pretty good Anthro dept

Answer 2

Hi, I have a BA in Anthropology, I don't have any advice about your situation, as no one ever gave me a hard time about it, but, I will tell you that what I would do if someone asked me my major is:

tell them that my major is anthropology, don't say a specific subfield,

alot of ppl will ask what the heck is anthro, then explain it to them,

if they ask what part you are interested in say undecided

that would be the easiest way to avoid the situation but above all, WHO CARES WHAT THEY THINK, don't let them make you feel bad, if you love it do it.  you cant help who is/isn't going to get offended that's their prob. just keep up with your studies and reach you goal!!!