Communication, Modernity, and Society: Key Concepts
Communication and Modernity
Communication and modernity: Technical advancements have liberated individuals from the constraints of time and space, enabling constant communication and amplification. This progress, a hallmark of modernity, fosters freedom, individuality, the right to expression, and an interest in life skills. Beginning in the seventeenth century, the gradual opening of borders—both mental and cultural—facilitated trade, exchange of goods, services, and arts, linking communication
Read MoreThe Labor Movement in 19th-Century Spain: Origins and Evolution
The Labor Movement in 19th-Century Spain
Throughout the nineteenth century, the labor movement developed in Spain. Its appearance was favored by the labor and economic conditions of workers. The first claims focused on the right of association and the maintenance of salary.
Early Workers’ Struggles
One of the most important social changes of the 19th century was the emergence of the industrial working class. The causes of their appearance were the tough work situations to which they were subjected:
Read MoreLabor Movement Origins: From Luddites to the First International
Origins of the Labor Movement
Luddites and Trade Unions: The initial labor movement manifested as violent opposition to machines, known as Luddism. This movement, named after Ned Ludd, who destroyed a loom in 1779, was present in early industrialization across countries. Unions emerged as resistance against capital. In 1834, the Great Trade Union was formed, uniting around 500,000 members. The British trade union movement was characterized by in-office associations, sometimes leading to rivalries,
Read MoreStructuralism in Social Anthropology: Key Concepts
The Main Theories and Schools
Structuralism
C. Levi-Strauss was undoubtedly the great representative of structuralism in social anthropology in the sixties. His interest in language stemmed from the conviction that it held a top position in all the social sciences. This field had made the most progress, claiming the name of science and achieving a positive method to understand the facts of nature. [C. Levi-Strauss, 1985:37]. This method has mainly been applied in France to the structures of kinship,
Read MoreFamily Evolution: Societal Changes and Historical Impact
**Item 6. The Family and Its Transformation**
The family is a universal institution that is present in all cultures. It is not static but has evolved over time with changes in society. It is a constantly evolving group related to political, social, economic, and cultural factors.
Throughout history, certain events have marked changes in family structure and even its duties. Scientific and medical advances have led to a falling birth rate and increased adult life expectancy. Industrialization has certainly
Read MoreUnderstanding Brazilian Culture: A Deep Dive into DaMatta’s Analysis
What Defines Brazil?
In his book, anthropologist Roberto DaMatta explores the essence of Brazilian daily life. He distinguishes between ‘Brazil’ (lowercase), which represents the personal, lived experience of being Brazilian, and ‘Brazil’ (uppercase), which refers to the country as a formal entity with culture, territory, and political structures. DaMatta argues that our identity is shaped by both aspects, and he uses social anthropology to understand this duality.
DaMatta defines culture as a specific