Anthropological Approaches to Heritage

Anthropological approaches to heritage study how cultural practices, traditions, sites, and objects shape and reflect a community’s identity and history. These approaches examine not just the physical aspects of heritage but also the meanings and social values attached to them. By understanding how people relate to their heritage, anthropologists explore how history, culture, and power influence what is preserved and celebrated. This perspective emphasizes that heritage is a living, dynamic part of communities, helping us appreciate diverse ways people connect with their past.