Cool Anthropology: How to Engage the Public with Academic Research

Cool Anthropology showcases how anthropologists engage the public with their research through case studies, moving beyond the discipline and promoting collaboration.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 270 pages
Publication date: 04 May 2022
Publisher: University of Toronto Press

Cool Anthropology is a captivating exploration of the diverse ways in which anthropologists have engaged the public with their research. Edited by Kristina Baines and Victoria Costa, this book showcases remarkable initiatives aimed at forging meaningful connections with communities beyond the confines of academia. By emphasizing collaborative endeavors, the contributors challenge the notion of knowledge production as a solitary endeavor and delve into the profound implications of involving communities as both producers and consumers of academic research.

The book opens with a thought-provoking introduction that sets the stage for the subsequent case studies. It highlights the importance of anthropology in understanding the complexities of human societies and cultures, emphasizing the need for broader dissemination of research findings. The editors then introduce each case study, providing a brief overview of the research project and the unique approach taken by the anthropologists involved.

The case studies themselves are a testament to the power of collaboration and engagement. They showcase how anthropologists have worked alongside communities to address pressing social issues, such as poverty, healthcare, and environmental degradation. By involving local stakeholders in the research process, anthropologists have been able to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by these communities and develop innovative solutions that are tailored to their specific needs.

One of the key themes that emerges from the case studies is the importance of recognizing communities as active participants in the production of knowledge. Rather than viewing communities as passive recipients of academic research, anthropologists have embraced the idea of co-production, where communities are not only beneficiaries of the research but also active contributors to its development. This approach has led to the creation of more inclusive and effective research projects that have the potential to have a greater impact on society.

Another important aspect of the book is the exploration of the ways in which engaging communities as producers and consumers of academic research can promote anthropology better and do anthropology better. The contributors argue that by involving communities in the research process, anthropologists can gain a more nuanced understanding of the social and cultural contexts in which their work is situated. This understanding can lead to more effective advocacy and policy-making, as well as the development of more culturally sensitive and responsive research methodologies.

Furthermore, the case studies demonstrate the power of storytelling and visual representation in engaging the public with anthropological research. By using creative and innovative methods, such as photography, film, and interactive exhibits, anthropologists have been able to convey complex ideas and concepts in a way that is accessible and relatable to a wide audience. This has helped to break down barriers to understanding and promote a greater appreciation for the diversity of human societies and cultures.

In conclusion, Cool Anthropology is a must-read for anyone interested in anthropology, social justice, and community engagement. Through a series of compelling case studies, the book showcases the many different approaches that anthropologists have used to engage the public with their research. By emphasizing collaboration, co-production, and the power of storytelling, anthropologists have been able to promote a greater understanding of the complexities of human societies and cultures and contribute to the development of more inclusive and effective solutions to social issues.

Weight: 450g
Dimension: 152 x 230 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781487524418