Applied Anthropology Network (AAN) is the main European platform dedicated to the exchange of information and experiences related to practical applications of anthropology and ethnography. The network enables a circular transfer of knowledge between academia, private and public sectors, NGOs, interest groups, students and other individuals. The network is part of the European Association for Social Anthropologists.
We work as a collective to elevate the discipline of anthropology through a shared belief in its capacity to espouse a free, forward-thinking world whose actions are motivated by and benefit both society and planet.
Mission
- Popularize the value of anthropological methods and theories for practical problem-solving in different areas and sectors.
- Support the work of (applied) anthropologists, highlighting and discussing its value in both academic and non-academic venues.
- Build bridges that foster new cross-disciplinary and cross-sectoral professional collaborations, and improve the presence of anthropologists in non-academic spaces.
- Provide a networking platform for mutual support; facilitate job-matching, project opportunities, and guidance to the wider community.
Vision
- A world, in which anthropology is a relevant discipline with significant weight in decision-making, policies, and design.
- A world, in which anthropological theory and practice in society, business, industry and governance foster innovation based on people’s needs and socio-culturally differentiating factors.
- A world, in which the presence of anthropologists in non-academic spaces is bold, sought-after and on the rise.
- A world, in which relationships between academic spaces and fields of application (NGOs, companies, governments) are supportive and beneficial.
Activities
- The Network organizes an annual symposium called “Why the World Needs Anthropologists” (WWNA) and arranges satellite events
- Develops educational activities and fosters scholarly debate
- Supports publication activities of the network members
- Assists in hosting panels and presentations at academic and other conferences
- Holds network meetings at WWNA event and EASA biennial conference
- Organizes itself via mailing list, Slack and Applied Anthro Collab Group
- Shares relevant content in social media, applied-anthropology and a network newsletter
Network Team
The AAN consists of regular Members, National Ambassadors, Advisors, Partners and Convenors. The network is organised by a team of three elected convenors who are professionally active in the academic and/or corporate worlds, and are deeply committed to the development of (applied) anthropology.
Current Convenors (alph.order): Lana Peternel, Simon Provoost, Markus Rothmüller
AAN Founder and Executive Advisor: Dan Podjed
General Contact
E-mail: team@applied-anthropology.com
