Urban anthropology studies modern societies by examining how people interact, live, and adapt within urban environments. It blends cultural and social anthropology with urban studies to explore various aspects of city life, including migration, economic activities, social structures, cultural expressions, and power dynamics. Some key areas of focus include:
- Urbanization and Migration – Understanding how cities grow and how people move into and within them, including rural-to-urban migration and international migration patterns.
- Social Inequality and Class Structures – Studying issues like poverty, housing, gentrification, and access to resources to analyze how different groups experience urban life.
- Cultural Diversity and Identity – Exploring how cultural practices, traditions, and identities evolve in multicultural urban settings.
- Economic Activities and Informal Markets – Investigating how people make a living in cities, including both formal jobs and informal economies like street vending and gig work.
- Urban Space and Infrastructure – Looking at how people use and shape urban spaces, from public parks to transportation systems and digital connectivity.
- Politics and Power in Cities – Examining governance, community organizing, social movements, and how people challenge authority and advocate for their rights.
- Technology and Digital Life – Studying how urban dwellers use digital tools, social media, and smart city innovations to navigate their environment.
Urban anthropologists use ethnographic methods like participant observation, interviews, and case studies to gain deep insights into city life. Their research helps shape urban policies, improve social services, and foster inclusive city planning.