If you are looking for BANS-183 IGNOU Solved Assignment solution for the subject Tourism Anthropology, you have come to the right place. BANS-183 solution on this page applies to 2024-25 session students studying in BAG, BSCG, BAHIH, BAPSH, BAPCH, BASOH, BAEGH, BAPFHMH, BAPAH, BAECH, BSCANH, BAHDH courses of IGNOU.
BANS-183 Solved Assignment Solution by Gyaniversity
Assignment Code: BANS 183/ASST/TMA/July 2024
Course Code: BANS-183
Assignment Name: Tourism Anthropology
Year: 2024-2025
Verification Status: Verified by Professor
There are two Sections in the Assignment. You have to answer all questions in all the Sections.
Assignment – I
Answer the following in about 500 words each. 2X20= 40
a. Discuss the history of the study of tourism in anthropology.
Ans) The study of tourism in anthropology has evolved significantly over time, emerging as a distinct subfield known as "tourism anthropology." This development has roots in the broader discipline of anthropology, which traditionally focused on understanding human cultures, societies, and behaviors. The anthropological study of tourism began as a reaction to the growing significance of global travel and its cultural, economic, and social implications. Below is a historical overview of the study of tourism in anthropology.
Early Beginnings
In the early 20th century, anthropology was primarily concerned with studying remote and "exotic" cultures that were perceived as being untouched by modernity. However, as global travel became more widespread in the post-World War II period, anthropologists began to observe the impact of tourism on local cultures. Initially, these observations were sporadic and unorganized, often appearing as side notes in ethnographic studies. Travelers, missionaries, and colonial administrators had long interacted with local populations, but their impact was seldom critically analyzed within anthropology.
During this period, tourism was largely seen as a marginal topic, unworthy of serious anthropological attention. This was in part due to a perception of tourism as a trivial activity, associated more with leisure than with the core concerns of anthropology, such as kinship, religion, or economic systems. The few studies that did touch on tourism often did so through the lens of modernization, seeing tourism as a form of Western influence that disrupted traditional societies.
Emergence as a Subfield (1970s–1980s)
The 1970s and 1980s marked a turning point for the anthropological study of tourism, as scholars began to see tourism as a significant area of study in its own right. The works of scholars like Dean MacCannell and Valene Smith were crucial in this period. MacCannell's influential book The Tourist: A New Theory of the Leisure Class (1976) argued that tourism was a modern ritual in which tourists sought "authentic" experiences. This work helped shift the focus of anthropology to the ways in which tourism was a deeply cultural phenomenon, not just an economic one.
Valene Smith, in her edited volume Hosts and Guests: The Anthropology of Tourism (1977), provided one of the first comprehensive frameworks for understanding the relationships between tourists and local populations. This book introduced key concepts like "staged authenticity" and the idea that tourism was not just a superficial interaction but a complex, negotiated relationship between hosts (local populations) and guests (tourists). This period also saw the development of the concept of "ethnic tourism," which looked at how indigenous and marginalized groups were often presented as cultural spectacles for tourist consumption.
During this time, tourism was recognized as a major global industry that had significant effects on the cultures and societies it touched. Anthropologists began to examine tourism’s roles in processes of globalization, commodification, and cultural change. The industry was no longer seen as a peripheral subject but as a driving force in economic and social transformations in many parts of the world.
The Growth of Critical Tourism Studies (1990s–2000s)
In the 1990s, the study of tourism within anthropology grew more critical. Scholars began to explore how tourism perpetuated inequalities between the Global North and the Global South, particularly through processes of cultural appropriation and economic exploitation. The role of tourism in post-colonial contexts was a key focus, with anthropologists examining how colonial histories were sometimes "performed" for tourists, reinforcing stereotypes and unequal power dynamics.
During this period, anthropologists also began to pay more attention to the experiences of the tourists themselves. Earlier studies had largely focused on the impacts of tourism on local populations, but now the motivations, behaviors, and expectations of tourists became subjects of study. Researchers examined how tourists constructed their identities through travel and how the act of tourism related to broader social and cultural trends, such as consumerism and global mobility.
Contemporary Approaches (2000s–Present)
In the 21st century, tourism anthropology has become increasingly interdisciplinary, drawing on insights from fields such as sociology, geography, and cultural studies. The focus has expanded to include topics like ecotourism, heritage tourism, and the impact of tourism on the environment. The concept of "sustainable tourism" has become a key area of research, with anthropologists investigating how tourism can be practiced in ways that are socially and environmentally responsible.
The rise of digital technology and social media has also transformed the way tourism is studied. Today, anthropologists explore how digital platforms shape tourism experiences, from online reviews to social media influencers promoting travel destinations. The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the significance of tourism as a global phenomenon, prompting new questions about the future of travel and its impact on communities worldwide.
b. Define tangible and intangible heritage with suitable examples.
Ans) Heritage refers to the legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes inherited from past generations. It encompasses a wide array of cultural, historical, and natural elements that are passed down from generation to generation. UNESCO has classified heritage into two broad categories: tangible and intangible. Understanding the difference between these two types of heritage is crucial for appreciating the depth and diversity of human culture.
Tangible Heritage
Tangible heritage refers to physical objects, sites, and monuments that have cultural, historical, or artistic value. These are concrete, material elements that can be seen, touched, and preserved. Tangible heritage includes architectural structures, monuments, artifacts, landscapes, and any physical remnants from the past that hold cultural significance.
Examples of Tangible Heritage:
a) Monuments: The Taj Mahal in India is an iconic example of tangible heritage. It is a physical structure that represents the historical and architectural prowess of the Mughal Empire. Built in the 17th century by Emperor Shah Jahan, it is a symbol of love and cultural refinement.
b) Historical Buildings: The Colosseum in Rome is another example. This ancient amphitheater represents Roman engineering and culture. It is a tangible remnant of ancient Roman civilization, showcasing their public entertainment systems.
c) Artifacts: Objects such as pottery, jewelry, weapons, and tools discovered in archaeological sites fall under tangible heritage. These artifacts provide insights into the daily lives, traditions, and technological advancements of ancient civilizations.
d) Cultural Landscapes: Places like Machu Picchu in Peru are tangible heritage that combine natural beauty with cultural significance. This Incan city, located high in the Andes, exemplifies the unique relationship between a culture and its environment.
Tangible heritage can be further classified into two categories:
a) Movable Tangible Heritage: Items that can be moved, like paintings, sculptures, books, and documents.
b) Immovable Tangible Heritage: Structures that are part of the physical landscape, like buildings, archaeological sites, and monuments.
Intangible Heritage
Intangible heritage refers to practices, traditions, knowledge, skills, and expressions that people recognize as part of their cultural identity. Unlike tangible heritage, intangible heritage is not physical but is instead manifested through language, oral traditions, rituals, performing arts, and social practices. It represents the living aspect of heritage that continues to evolve and change over time.
Examples of Intangible Heritage:
a) Traditional Music and Dance: Indian classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam or folk music like Flamenco from Spain are examples of intangible cultural heritage. These performing arts are passed down through generations, embodying the values and identities of their respective cultures.
b) Festivals and Rituals: The Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, or the Diwali festival in India are intangible heritages that bring communities together and celebrate cultural beliefs, customs, and values.
c) Oral Traditions: The storytelling traditions of Indigenous peoples, such as the Aboriginal Dreamtime stories in Australia, are crucial aspects of intangible heritage. These stories transmit knowledge, culture, and morality through generations without being written down.
d) Craftsmanship and Skills: The knowledge and skills involved in traditional crafts like Japanese kimono weaving, pottery making in Oaxaca, Mexico, or Swiss watchmaking are considered intangible heritage. These skills are not just about creating physical objects but are also about preserving cultural knowledge and practices.
Importance of Tangible and Intangible Heritage
Both tangible and intangible heritage are vital for preserving cultural identity and fostering a sense of belonging within a community. However, they also face distinct challenges in preservation.
Tangible Heritage: One of the biggest threats to tangible heritage is physical deterioration. Environmental factors like pollution, natural disasters, and urbanization can damage physical structures. For example, the temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia are facing erosion due to weathering and tourism. Restoration and conservation efforts are essential to preserving such sites for future generations.
Intangible Heritage: Intangible heritage is more fragile in many ways. It is susceptible to being lost when communities face displacement, globalization, or cultural homogenization. Once a language, tradition, or ritual dies out, it is much harder to recover than a physical object. Efforts to safeguard intangible heritage often involve encouraging its continued practice, supporting practitioners, and ensuring that younger generations are involved in its transmission.
Interrelationship Between Tangible and Intangible Heritage
While tangible and intangible heritage are distinct, they are often interconnected. A tangible cultural site, such as a temple, is meaningful because of the intangible practices associated with it, such as rituals or festivals. For example, the Pyramids of Egypt (tangible heritage) are not just architectural wonders; they are deeply tied to the religious beliefs and burial rituals (intangible heritage) of ancient Egyptians.
Similarly, a traditional craft like pottery making involves both the tangible product (pottery) and the intangible knowledge of how it is made. The preservation of tangible artifacts often relies on the safeguarding of intangible skills and knowledge.
Assignment – II
Answer the following in about 250 words each. (Write Short Notes) 3X10=30
a. Write a note on Museums as cultural heritage with suitable examples.
Ans) Museums as Cultural Heritage
Museums play a pivotal role in preserving, showcasing, and interpreting cultural heritage. They are institutions dedicated to the collection, protection, and exhibition of artifacts, artworks, and other culturally significant objects. Museums serve as custodians of both tangible heritage—such as historical artifacts, paintings, and archaeological relics—and intangible heritage, which includes traditions, folklore, and indigenous practices that are often displayed through exhibitions, performances, or educational programs.
Museums offer a space for communities to engage with their history, identity, and culture. They help ensure that important cultural materials are safeguarded from destruction, deterioration, or theft, making them accessible to the public and future generations. By doing so, museums not only preserve the past but also promote cultural understanding and diversity.
Examples of Museums as Cultural Heritage:
a) The Louvre Museum in Paris: Home to famous works like the "Mona Lisa" and countless artifacts from various civilizations, the Louvre showcases the cultural achievements of humanity across millennia.
b) The British Museum in London: It holds vast collections of global cultural heritage, from the Egyptian Rosetta Stone to the Greek Elgin Marbles.
c) The National Museum in New Delhi, India: This museum houses ancient Indian artifacts, sculptures, and manuscripts, preserving India's rich history and traditions.
Museums thus play a crucial role in preserving, educating, and promoting cultural heritage in both local and global contexts.
b. Discuss the preservation steps taken to conserve the Taj Mahal and the caves in Bhimbetka.
Ans) Preservation of the Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, has faced several preservation challenges due to environmental pollution, tourism, and natural aging. Various conservation steps have been taken to protect this iconic monument:
a) Pollution Control: To reduce the damage caused by air pollution, the Indian government created a “Taj Trapezium Zone” (TTZ), which limits industrial emissions and vehicular traffic around the Taj Mahal. Additionally, measures like using natural gas and electricity in nearby industries help mitigate pollution.
b) Mud-Packing Treatment: A unique method called "multani mitti" or Fuller’s Earth mud-packing has been applied to clean the white marble of the Taj Mahal. This treatment removes surface stains, dirt, and discoloration caused by pollution, restoring its original sheen.
c) Restoration and Maintenance: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) undertakes regular maintenance and restoration efforts to address structural wear and tear, including cleaning and repairs of the marble inlay work and mosaic.
Preservation of the Bhimbetka Caves
The Bhimbetka caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are famous for their prehistoric rock paintings, some of which date back over 30,000 years. Steps to conserve the site include:
a) Limiting Human Activity: Restricted access to certain areas of the caves helps prevent damage from human interaction, such as graffiti and touch.
b) Environmental Protection: The government has implemented measures to control pollution and deforestation in the area, preserving the natural surroundings of the caves.
c) Monitoring and Documentation: The ASI regularly monitors the condition of the rock art and documents it for further study and preservation efforts.
These efforts aim to preserve the historical and cultural significance of both the Taj Mahal and the Bhimbetka caves for future generations.
c. Discuss commodification in tourism with an example discussed in unit 5.
Ans) Commodification in Tourism
Commodification in tourism refers to the process by which cultural practices, traditions, and even natural landscapes are transformed into products that can be bought, sold, and consumed by tourists. This often involves packaging cultural elements—such as local customs, festivals, handicrafts, or historical sites—into marketable experiences, sometimes stripping them of their original meaning and context.
While commodification can help promote cultural exchange and generate economic benefits for local communities, it can also lead to the commercialization and distortion of cultural heritage. Local traditions and practices may be altered or "staged" to meet the expectations of tourists, which can dilute their authenticity. As a result, the community's cultural identity may be commodified to fit a commercial model, catering more to consumer demand than to the preservation of cultural heritage.
Example: The Maasai Culture
A notable example discussed in Unit 5 is the commodification of Maasai culture in Kenya and Tanzania. The Maasai, known for their distinct dress, dance, and traditions, have become a popular attraction for cultural tourism. Tour operators often organize visits to Maasai villages where tourists can observe traditional dances, buy handicrafts, and take photographs with locals. While these interactions generate income for the Maasai, some argue that the cultural experiences are staged for tourist consumption, leading to the erosion of their traditional practices.
In such cases, commodification in tourism raises ethical concerns about the balance between preserving cultural integrity and catering to economic interests.
Answer the following questions in about 150 words each. 6X5=30
a. Tourist/Guest
Ans) A tourist is an individual who travels to a destination outside their usual environment for leisure, business, or other purposes, typically for a short period. Tourism involves visiting various places, exploring cultures, historical sites, and engaging in activities that are not part of daily life. Tourists play a significant role in the global economy by spending on accommodations, food, and attractions, thus boosting local industries and communities.
A guest, on the other hand, is someone who is invited to stay or attend an event in a particular place, such as a hotel, restaurant, or home. In the hospitality industry, guests are considered customers receiving services, and the focus is on providing them with comfort, personalized attention, and fulfilling their expectations.
While both tourists and guests are temporary visitors, the key difference lies in their context of interaction—tourists explore destinations, while guests experience services provided by hosts or establishments.
b. Local environment versus tourist sites
Ans) The local environment refers to the natural, social, and cultural surroundings in which a community lives. It includes ecosystems, landscapes, infrastructure, and the cultural fabric that defines the day-to-day life of the residents. Local environments are often deeply rooted in history, culture, and natural resources, playing a key role in sustaining the livelihoods of the people.
In contrast, tourist sites are specific locations developed or designated for attracting visitors. These can be natural landscapes, historical monuments, or culturally significant areas that are marketed for tourism. Tourist sites are often designed to cater to external visitors, offering amenities like guided tours, accommodations, and attractions tailored to enhance the visitor experience.
The distinction between the two lies in purpose and usage: the local environment supports everyday living and cultural continuity, while tourist sites are crafted or promoted to serve the interests of short-term visitors, often leading to commercialization and infrastructural changes in the local environment.
c. Ecotourism
Ans) Ecotourism is a sustainable form of tourism that focuses on visiting natural areas while minimizing environmental impact and promoting conservation. It emphasizes responsible travel to ecologically sensitive locations, where visitors can enjoy and appreciate the beauty of nature while supporting efforts to preserve it. Ecotourism often involves educational experiences, allowing tourists to learn about local ecosystems, wildlife, and conservation practices.
One of the key principles of ecotourism is to benefit the local communities economically by providing jobs and promoting the sustainable use of natural resources. Additionally, ecotourism encourages respect for local cultures and traditions, ensuring that tourism activities do not harm the social fabric of the region.
An example of ecotourism is wildlife safaris in national parks, where tourists observe animals in their natural habitats while supporting conservation efforts. Ecotourism aims to balance the needs of tourists, local communities, and the environment, ensuring long-term sustainability.
d. Sustainable tourism
Ans) Sustainable tourism refers to tourism that meets the needs of present tourists and host communities while protecting and enhancing opportunities for the future. It aims to minimize negative environmental, social, and economic impacts while promoting the well-being of local communities and the conservation of natural and cultural heritage.
Sustainable tourism practices include reducing carbon footprints, managing waste, conserving water and energy, and protecting ecosystems. It also emphasizes supporting local economies by using local products and services, fostering cultural exchange, and ensuring that tourism does not lead to the degradation of local traditions or the environment.
An example of sustainable tourism is community-based tourism, where local residents are actively involved in providing services and experiences to tourists. This approach not only benefits the environment but also ensures that the economic gains from tourism are equitably distributed within the community, promoting long-term socio-economic development.
e. The Field site/Tourist Spot
Ans) A field site refers to a specific location where researchers, especially anthropologists, sociologists, or geographers, conduct fieldwork to gather data about cultures, environments, or social behaviors. Field sites are crucial for in-depth, immersive research, providing a direct understanding of local communities, their practices, and the natural environment. Researchers spend extended periods at field sites to observe and document the interactions and dynamics of the area.
On the other hand, a tourist spot is a location that attracts visitors for its natural beauty, cultural significance, historical importance, or recreational opportunities. Tourist spots are often commercialized and developed with infrastructure like hotels, restaurants, and guided tours to enhance the visitor experience. Examples include the Eiffel Tower in Paris or the Great Wall of China.
While both field sites and tourist spots are geographical locations, the primary difference lies in their purpose—field sites are for research and learning, while tourist spots cater to recreational and cultural exploration.
f. Native/Host
Ans) A native refers to a person who belongs to a specific place by birth or heritage. Natives have a deep cultural, historical, and social connection to their land, language, and traditions. They carry a unique understanding of the local customs, values, and community practices, often passed down through generations. Natives form the cultural backbone of any region, providing authenticity and continuity to local traditions and lifestyles.
A host, in the context of tourism or hospitality, is someone who welcomes and provides services to visitors or guests. Hosts may offer accommodation, guidance, or experiences to tourists, ensuring their comfort and enhancing their understanding of the local culture. A host can be a native of the region or someone employed to represent local culture.
While a native is intrinsically tied to the land and its cultural heritage, a host plays the active role of engaging with and accommodating outsiders, facilitating cultural exchange or hospitality. Both contribute to the tourism experience but from different perspectives..
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