The huge inflow of refugees from the wars in the Middle East to parts of Europe and Scandinavia has created a lot of social and political problems in those countries where the refugees wind up. What kind of anthropologist would offer useful input to the politicians making decisions about resettlement programs?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A cultural anthropologist would offer the most useful input to politicians making decisions about refugee resettlement programs because they study the cultural practices and beliefs of different societies. This would be particularly relevant in the case of refugees, who are likely to have different cultural backgrounds and practices from the societies to which they are being resettled. A physical anthropologist might provide insights into the health and well-being of the refugees, but would not necessarily have expertise in cultural issues. A holistic anthropologist would look at all aspects of human experience, but might not have the specific expertise in cultural practices that a cultural anthropologist would have. A sociolinguist would focus specifically on language issues, which might be relevant in some cases but not necessarily in all cases of refugee resettlement.

The Huge Inflow of Refugees from the Wars in the Middle