GfA meeting 2017: Central theme

Anthropology takes all aspects of the human condition into consideration while studying the entire, immensely broad sprectrum of human behaviour. Against the backdrop of the current global political situation, this is often reduced to two strategies: conflict and cooperation.

Acting together and against each other are the extremes of a highly variable continuum of behaviour. Both strategies are deeply rooted in human evolution and adaptation. But there is also a wide scope of action, allowing us to adequately deal with conflictsand to achieve common goals in cooperation.

Reflecting about evolutionary adaptations and the complexity of behaviour and methods should help to improve our coexistence.

The 12^th international meeting of the Society of Anthropology picks up this topic. Anthropology, as the holistic study of mankind, is prominently apt to investigate these basic and variable strategies, drawing on biological, behavioural and cultural aspects.

A multitude of applied methods, approaches and topics will demonstrate the many facets of conflict and cooperation. Connections will become apparent, contributing to a complex understanding of this area of research.