Anthropology Case Studies 6th February 2026
Introduction: Why Case Studies Matter in UPSC Anthropology
Case studies are an essential component of UPSC Anthropology preparation because they connect theoretical concepts with real-world situations. They help aspirants demonstrate applied understanding, enrich answers with contemporary relevance, and improve marks in both Paper I and Paper II. Well-used case studies show the examiner that the candidate can link anthropological theory with current social, ecological, and health challenges.
The following two case studies illustrate how anthropology helps explain complex issues in ecology and public health governance.
Quick Reference Box
Case Study 1: Wetlands as a National Public Good
- Paper Mapping: Paper I – Ecological Anthropology (9.7)
- Core Concepts: Traditional ecological knowledge, commons, sustainability, community stewardship
- Keywords: Wetlands, public goods, ecological systems, traditional knowledge, conservation
Case Study 2: Gonorrhoea as a Public Health Challenge
- Paper Mapping: Paper I – Epidemiological Anthropology (9.8)
- Core Concepts: Disease ecology, social determinants of health, gender inequality, stigma
- Keywords: STI, antimicrobial resistance, health equity, sexual autonomy, public health governance
Case Study 1
Wetlands as a National Public Good in India
Scientific Background
Ecological anthropology studies the interaction between human societies and their natural environments. It highlights how traditional knowledge systems evolved to manage resources sustainably. Wetlands, in this context, are not just ecological spaces but socio-cultural systems that support livelihoods, rituals, and community identity.
Historically, Indian communities developed sophisticated wetland management systems, such as:
- Tank cascades in Tamil Nadu.
- Kenis (community wells) in Kerala.
- Fishing wetlands in Andhra Pradesh.
These systems integrated ecology, economy, and culture.
Detailed Case Study Explanation
Subject Details
Wetlands function as:
- Water storage systems
- Biodiversity hotspots
- Livelihood sources
- Cultural landscapes
They provide benefits to society at large, making them national public goods.
Key Observations
- Nearly 40% of wetlands have disappeared in three decades.
- About 50% of remaining wetlands are degraded.
- Weak governance and development pressures are major causes.
Mechanism of Decline
Major factors include:
- Urban encroachment and land-use change.
- Hydrological disruptions from dams and mining.
- Pollution from sewage and industrial waste.
- Coastal development pressures.
Main Anthropological Takeaways
- Traditional ecological knowledge ensured sustainability.
- Community-based resource management was effective.
- Modern governance often ignores socio-cultural dimensions of ecology.
Anthropological Relevance
Paper I:
- Demonstrates ecological anthropology concepts.
- Shows human–environment interaction.
Paper II:
- Links to tribal livelihoods, fishing communities, and resource rights.
Applications in Policy and Society
Key recommendations:
- Legal notification and protection of wetlands.
- Wastewater treatment before discharge.
- Restoration of natural water flows.
- Community participation in management.
Wetlands should be treated as nature-based infrastructure for climate resilience.
Answer-Writing Guidelines
In exam answers:
- Define wetlands as ecological and social systems.
- Mention traditional practices (tank systems, kenis).
- Use statistics on wetland loss.
- Conclude with policy and community-based solutions.
Possible PYQ-Style Questions
- Discuss the role of traditional ecological knowledge in resource management.
- Explain the significance of wetlands in ecological anthropology.
- How do community institutions contribute to environmental sustainability?
FAQs
1. Why are wetlands called public goods?
Because they provide collective benefits like flood control, biodiversity, and water security.
2. What is the role of traditional knowledge in wetland management?
It provides sustainable, locally adapted conservation practices.
Case Study 2
Gonorrhoea as a Public Health and Governance Challenge
Scientific Background
Epidemiological anthropology examines how diseases spread within social and cultural contexts. It studies how inequality, behaviour, stigma, and access to healthcare shape disease patterns.
Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
According to the WHO:
- 82.4 million new infections were reported globally in 2020.
Detailed Case Study Explanation
Subject Details
Gonorrhoea spreads through:
- Unprotected vaginal, oral, or anal sex.
It often infects:
- Urogenital tract
- Throat
- Rectum
- Eyes (in newborns)
Key Observations
- Many infections are asymptomatic.
- Higher risk among women and marginalised groups.
- Social stigma prevents testing and treatment.
Mechanism of Spread
The disease spreads due to:
- Lack of sexual autonomy.
- Poor awareness.
- Limited screening services.
- Stigma around STIs.
Untreated cases can cause:
- Infertility
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Increased HIV risk
Main Anthropological Takeaways
- Disease patterns reflect social inequality.
- Gender norms influence health outcomes.
- Stigma is a major barrier to public health.
Anthropological Relevance
Paper I:
- Epidemiological anthropology.
- Social determinants of disease.
Paper II:
- Women’s health and reproductive rights.
- Health access among marginalised groups.
Applications in Policy and Society
Key policy measures:
- Routine STI screening.
- Sexual health education.
- Integration with maternal healthcare.
- Surveillance for antimicrobial resistance.
Answer-Writing Guidelines
In exam answers:
- Define gonorrhoea briefly.
- Mention asymptomatic transmission.
- Link disease spread to social factors.
- Conclude with public health and gender-sensitive policies.
Possible PYQ-Style Questions
- Discuss the role of social determinants in disease spread.
- Explain the concept of epidemiological anthropology with examples.
- How does gender inequality affect public health outcomes?
FAQs
1. Why is gonorrhoea still a major public health problem?
Because many cases are asymptomatic and social stigma prevents testing.
2. What is the biggest emerging threat in gonorrhoea control?
Antimicrobial resistance, which makes treatment difficult.
Conclusion: Anthropology in Action
These case studies show how anthropology provides practical insights into ecological sustainability and public health governance. From wetland conservation to STI control, anthropological perspectives highlight the importance of culture, community, and social structures in shaping outcomes.
For UPSC aspirants, integrating such case studies into answers can significantly improve analytical depth and scoring potential.
Call to Action
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