Students' Presentation 5: Theories - Diffusionism, Evolutionism and Historical Particularism

On 31.07.2024, a group of college students presented a detailed and engaging session on three key theoretical perspectives in anthropology: Evolutionism, Diffusionism, and Historical Particularism. The event was organized as part of the anthropology department's ongoing seminar series, with the aim of fostering a deeper understanding of these foundational concepts among peers and future students.

The presentation began with an overview of Evolutionism, which posits that cultures develop through a series of stages, progressing from simple to complex societies. The students highlighted key figures such as Edward Tylor and Lewis Henry Morgan, discussing their contributions to early anthropological thought. Next, the focus shifted to Diffusionism, the theory that cultural traits spread from one society to another through contact. The presenters explored both unilinear and multilinear diffusion models and their impact on modern anthropological studies.

Lastly, the concept of Historical Particularism, introduced by Franz Boas, was discussed as a counterpoint to the deterministic views of evolutionism and diffusionism. The students emphasized Boas' advocacy for understanding cultures within their unique historical contexts, promoting a more relativistic approach to anthropology.

The PowerPoint slides from the presentation will be shared with future students and published in the college's web magazine, ensuring that this valuable knowledge remains accessible for years to come. The session was both informative and thought-provoking, sparking lively discussion among attendees.

Based on class materials the fourth semester students have made presentations on Evolutionism, Diffusionism and Historical particularism. Following are

Rupam Tarafder on Evolutionism