1

Set 2: Central Ideas (Advanced)

Explanation

Answer: B

PASSAGE

The following text describes 'Structuralism' in anthropology. Structuralism, championed by Claude Lévi-Strauss, posits that human culture must be understood by way of its relationship to a broader, overarching system or structure. It argues that the underlying patterns of human thought are universal and produce cultural phenomena—like myths, kinship systems, and language—that are structurally similar across diverse societies. Thus, the meaning of a cultural element is not intrinsic but derives from its contrast with other elements within the system (binary oppositions like raw/cooked, life/death).

According to Structuralism, how is the meaning of a cultural element determined?

A. By its unique historical development in isolation
B. By the intended purpose of the individual creator✓ Correct
C. By its relationship and contrast with other elements in the system
D. By the biological needs it fulfills

Detailed Explanation

Choice C is correct. The text states: 'meaning... is not intrinsic but derives from its contrast with other elements within the system.'

Key Evidence:

• "derives from its contrast with other elements"

• "relationship to a broader, overarching system"

Why others are wrong: A (Opposite (Structuralism looks for universal patterns, not unique history)), B (Not mentioned), D (Functionalist view, not Structuralist).

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