Agency in anthropology refers to the capacity of individuals to act independently and make their own choices. It emphasizes the role of individuals as active participants in shaping their own lives and societies, rather than mere products of their environments or social structures.
Anthropologists examine how agency manifests in various cultural contexts, exploring how people navigate social norms, exercise their free will, and assert their identities within larger systems of power. For instance, within a community, an individual may resist traditional roles or challenge established practices, demonstrating their agency.
Understanding agency is crucial for anthropologists, as it allows them to appreciate the complexities of human behavior and the ways in which culture and individual action interplay. By studying agency, they can highlight the diversity of human experiences and the variations in how people exert their influence in different settings.