Thus, within the liberal arts, anthropology can be defined by its concern with studying the Other, with an eye to understanding both human difference and similarity. Traditionally, this concern has been expressed in anthropology's interest in non-Western and primitive societies. Tens of thousands distinct societies have existed in the history of the earth. To focus upon those of recent time in Europe and North America alone is to neglect the vast majority of forms society has taken. To ignore these ways of life is to ignore humankind's most common adaptations to the environment.
Anthropology also has important career applications.
Undergraduate anthropology majors can go on to medical or law school, just as they do with backgrounds in biology or political science. The major can prepare students equally well for other graduate programs, but anthropology has particular relevance to students interested in the fields of foreign affairs, international business and development, social services and community affairs and public health. The most convincing way to suggest how anthropology serves students' career interests is to cite particular cases. With departmental approval, two of these elective courses may be replaced by two related courses from other departments or programs. There is no strictly defined sequence for these courses.