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Alfred Radcliffe-Brown

Alfred Radcliffe-Brown was a British social anthropologist known for his work in the early 20th century. He emphasized the importance of social structures and relationships in understanding cultures, rather than just focusing on individual behaviors or beliefs. Radcliffe-Brown introduced the concept of "structural functionalism," which examines how various elements of a society work together to maintain stability and order. His research often involved studying kinship systems and rituals in different cultures, helping to highlight the interconnectedness of social practices and community life. His ideas significantly shaped the field of anthropology and influenced later sociological theories.