Responding to Crisis

Abstract

The financial crash of 2008 and ensuing economic crisis have prompted an outpouring of commentary. Despite taking a reputational hit, the discipline of economics may still claim to have had a good crisis arising from heightened perceptions of its relevance. But has anthropology had a good crisis, given the discipline�s distorted image that sits alongside its continuing marginal status within higher education? Citing the economic crisis as a case study for consideration of anthropology in public education, this paper examines two examples of anthropological participation that illustrate anthropology is intellectually able to both complement and contest a narrow economic understanding of the crisis. But more typically anthropologists have shown a reticence to engage in public education. Generalising, any consideration of anthropology�s specific contributions towards an understanding of public issues must take account of its distinctive nature and relationship with other disciplines. But by imparting an anthropological sensibility, anthropology needs to go beyond explanation and help shape the discourses that frame discussion. Drawing lessons from the Norwegian experience, a presence for anthropology in the schools� curriculum could support an expanded influence in public education and in turn help promote a heightened public profile. �