What does anthropology mean?

Question

I know this sound stupid, but I have to write my own definition for my class. I know that logy = scientific study of, anthropos = human being.

I was wondering if this is okay, this is my own defintion:

Anthropoloy is the study of human being.

Cultural Anthropology is the study of human pass culture that reflects it present culture.

Gosh, I'm having a hard time on these two words. Thanks for the help. It's for my Cultural Anthropology class.

Answer 1

You've pretty much hit the nail on the head. The dictionary definition of anthropology is "the science that deals with the origins, physical and cultural development, biological characteristics, and social customs and beliefs of humankind. ". Cultural Anthropology is " the social, and cultural development of humans--in other words, how one group of people interact with others, how their particular cultures grew--some resemble others but yet are totally different (like the Mayans and ancient Egyptians both had pyramids, but they were built totally different)--and this includes language, art, dance, music, etc.

     Physical anthropology, on the other hand, is the study of how mankind evolved through these past few million years. Today's human beings will be nothing like they will be even a thousand years from now because of all the scientific advances. Can you imagine people who live to be 200 years old or more, or who have part robotic parts (aka cyborg--or cybernetic organism)?? It very well could happen.

Answer 2

the study of the arthropods (upright walkers),  worlds greatest anthropologist,  david attenboriough

Answer 3

It's supposed to be your own definition so I think it's fine.  My guess is that the prof wants you to struglle with your definition, so you might want to jot down some ideas to back up your opinion as well.