idea for Readings in Public Anthropology emerged from Ta simple yet pressing question: How can anthropology move beyond the academic realm and make a meaningful impact in the public sphere? Over the years, as practitioners and scholars, we have witnessed the widening gap between anthropological knowledge and public discourse. This volume is our humble attempt to bridge that divide. Public Anthropology is not a new field, but its urgency has grown in recent times. In the face of rising inequality, cultural marginalization, ecological crises, and global health challenges, the discipline has a critical role to play in fostering understanding, empathy, and action. This book brings together a selection of essays, reflections, and ethnographic insights that collectively explore how anthropologists are engaging with contemporary social issues in ways that are participatory, impactful, and transformative. The contributors to this volume represent a range of voices-academics, grassroots researchers, and practitioners each bringing their unique perspective to bear on the diverse arenas in which public anthropology operates. Whether addressing indigenous rights, urban displacement, gender justice, community health, or environmental sustainability, these writings reflect a shared commitment: to make anthropology relevant, responsive, and responsible. This book is intended for students, scholars, activists, and all those interested in the application of social science to real-world challenges. It may serve as a teaching resource, a reference for field practitioners, or a stimulus for deeper dialogue on the ethical and practical dimensions of public engagement. We owe our gratitude to the many individuals and communities who opened their lives to anthropological inquiry and allowed their stories to be told. We also thank our contributors for their passion and insight, and our institutions for supporting this initiative. Above all, we hope this collection inspires reflection and action. Anthropology, when rooted in empathy and dialogue, can illuminate paths toward justice, dignity, and inclusion. It is in this spirit that we offer Readings in Public Anthropology to readers everywhere.
Public Anthropology bridges the space between scholarly inquiry and the lived realities of people. This collection, Readings in Public Anthropology, brings together thought-provoking essays, case studies, and critical reflections that highlight anthropology's vital role in addressing contemporary social, cultural, and ethical and policy issues. This helps Exploring Humanity, Society, and Engagement beyond the Academy. From indigenous rights and cultural heritage to health, migration, and environmental justice, these readings demonstrate how anthropological insights can inform public policy, strengthen community voices, and inspire meaningful change, Moving beyond academic boundaries, this volume showcases how anthropologists engage with media, governance, and grassroots movements to make their work more accessible and impactful. Designed for students, researchers, and practitioners alike, this book serves as both an introduction and an invitation to think anthropologically about the public world we live in and to recognize the transformative potential of anthropology in shaping a more inclusive society.
Key Features:
Essays connecting classical anthropological ideas with current public debates
Illustrations of applied research in diverse socio-cultural contexts
Reflections on ethics, advocacy, and participatory fieldwork
Contributions from leading and emerging scholars
Dr. D.C. Nanjunda is a academician from the Centre for the Social Inclusion, Mysore university (Karnataka) and researcher renowned for his work in the fields of public health, anthropology, tribal studies, and social exclusion. His multifaceted career has been marked by significant contributions to academia, policy-making, and community-oriented research. Dr. Nanjunda has published extensively in reputed journals. contributing to the discourse on tribal welfare, social inclusion, and public health. His works often integrate empirical research with actionable recommendations, influencing both academic and policy spheres. His leadership in the Centre of Excellence in Tribal Studies Scheme underscores his commitment to empowering marginalized communities and fostering inclusive development.
Dr Bharathi Karri is an Associate Professor in the Department of Anthropology, Sambalpur University, Odisha. She served at various universities in India, including Andhra University, Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya (a central university), and Arba Minch University in Ethiopia, North Africa. She has completed two projects as Principal Investigator and worked as a Co-investigator on five projects abroad. She has submitted a Project Report on Maternal and Child Health among Chuklia Bhunjia in 2025. Currently working on a university-funded minor project. Dr Bharathi has published to her credit 35 research publications in National and International Journals. She has been awarded as Educator Excellence Award and the Women Researcher Award in the year 2020.
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