short essay questions 13

Answer the following questions, make sure your answer covers all aspects of the question asked

FOUR questions. Please limit your answers to the space provided (200-250 words).

1. What are the five basic theoretical approaches to the study of religion in anthropology? Briefly describe each, mentioning their strengths and weaknesses. Which approach or approaches (in combo) do YOU think is best suited for the study of religion?

2. What is myth in a supernatural belief system? What purpose does myth serve? There are various kinds of myths; pick one, define it, and provide one example from one or more cultures. Is there any symbolism or ritual associated with your example? Make a brief point or two on this, if applicable.

3. Three kinds of reciprocity account for nearly all forms of exchange between peoples within a culture or between cultures. Clearly define each form of reciprocity. For each, provide a detailed example of how it works in practice by drawing on one of the cultures we have looked at thus far in the course.

4. Tribal social organization and the kinship relations that underlie it can be complicated and varied. As discussed in lecture and reading, describe and define each of the general hierarchical units present in any tribal unit. What purposes do such hierarchical arrangements serve?