Ecological Anthropology: An Area of Science at the Service of Sustainability

Abstract

Environmental changes have awakened interest not only from the science but also the government and the society due the pessimistic predictions about the future of the humankind. The traditional capitalist model appears as the main cause of this status quo which has been causing global reactions scientific perspective as well from institutions, local and international social movements that has been warning about the urgent need of changes in the economy, politics and society’s actions.  These changes require a multidisciplinary view about the current issues and possible solutions.  In that context, the Anthropology is part of the effort that through understanding mankind and its relationship with the environment, enables new findings that supports the planet’s effort to build an ecological culture aligned with the current needs and with the development of a truly sustainable society. Anthropological developments from the last decades show this possibility.  Therefore, the reflections on this essay expects to contribute to raise awareness about the issue.