Guiding Questions



To take a closer look at more of Mead's Guiding Questions, click here.



"What are the patterns of behavior . . .?" (SATA 2)

Such a simple question and yet it is so profound! This question focuses on the whole essence of anthropology as a discipline. Patterns of behavior, as opposed to simply observing disjointed behavioral acts, must be established if one is to understand the effects of a culture on a person. To me, this simple question is a prime example of a guiding question, i.e., guiding the direction of the study toward a logical conclusion in determining patterns of behavior in a culture.



This page was last updated on August 12, 1996, by Dr. Umpleby.