Gift Giving Guide 11: Finding the Best Present for Your Favorite Anthropologists

Twice a year every year I dedicate a blog post to something a little different and fun: gifts for the anthropologist.  I attempt to highlight handmade and/or fair trade items as these most closely mirror the values of anthropology in cultural understanding and preservation.  If you happen to know an anthropologist, someone with interests in anthropology, an anthropology graduate, or someone who shares these same values feel free to look into one of these amazing gifts:

For the Cultural Anthropologist

There is a trend in anthropology to become more aware of the effects of one's research on the local cultural groups, as well as being cognizant of how anthropology can be used to help people and cultural groups.  Cultural anthropologists are on the front lines of this trend, and this necklace embodies that idea very well.  If you know an anthropologist looking to work in advocacy or to make a difference this necklace quoting Margaret Mead might be the perfect gift.  Available through Chocolate And Steel on Etsy.

For the Biological Anthropologist

Primatology is one of the more popular areas within biological anthropology.  Therefore this unique gift may be the perfect for any biological anthropologist you know given that primate studies affect many of the other sub-subfields within the area.  Pins With Personality on Etsy offers a variety of primate pins, but this gorilla one is a personal favorite.  Lightweight and easy to wear a perfect accessory for any individual and occasion.

For the Linguistic Anthropologist

Everyone needs to drink, particularly water (because it is good for everyone!), and this mug might just be the perfect piece for the Linguistic Anthropologist in your life.  The witty caption it will bring a smile to their face each and every time they use it, be it for coffee, tea, or any watery beverage they feel to fill it with.  Available through Real People Goods on Etsy.  Note, this is also available as a shirt if that is more appropriate for your giftee.

For the Archaeologist

Archaeologists may not be chased by boulders or punching Nazis, but they are busy excavating out in the field or researching in archives, libraries, or other institutional repositories of knowledge.  They do hard work, and they need a nice place to rest their heads when they sleep at night.  Why not make their rest a little easier with this fun pillow case set.  They are sure to get a kick out of the ritual of their sleep (or lack thereof) with this dandy piece available through Silver Spur Mercantile on Etsy.