What is the definition of cultural anthropology?

Cultural anthropology is defined as the study of cultural variation among humans. This discipline focuses on understanding the diverse ways that people live, think, and interact within their societies. Cultural anthropologists examine aspects such as traditions, beliefs, values, social structures, and practices that define different cultures around the world.

The core of cultural anthropology lies in its aim to comprehend how human cultures differ and what these differences reveal about the human experience. It involves immersive fieldwork, including participant observation and interviews, to gather insights into daily lives and cultural contexts. By analyzing these variations, cultural anthropologists contribute to a deeper understanding of human behavior and social dynamics.

The other options do not align with the core focus of cultural anthropology. The study of cultural variation among animals pertains more to biological anthropology or zoology, historical artifacts relate to archaeology, and the combination of biology and culture points towards bio-cultural anthropology, which, while related, does not encapsulate the full scope of cultural anthropology itself.