If you’re interested in understanding what truly embodied the spirit of “Public Anthropology” over the past year—and what likely points toward the most influential work emerging this year—it helps to look at the standout examples that were widely recognized by established anthropology platforms. These selections highlight the kinds of conversations, analyses, and public engagement efforts that captured attention and demonstrated how anthropology can speak meaningfully to broader audiences.
Several major anthropology blogs and collaborative projects curated lists of the most impactful media contributions from 2008. Their choices reflected the diversity of voices shaping the discipline, from thoughtful essays on human behavior to critiques of social systems and explorations of cultural change. These compilations were not simply awards; they served as guides for readers who wanted to follow lively, insightful discussions about anthropology in action. Subscribing to the creators of these works allowed readers to stay connected with ongoing debates, new research, and creative ways scholars were communicating anthropological ideas to the public.
Among the highlights were collections informally referred to as the “Best of Anthro 2008,” which gathered notable writings from across the anthropological blogosphere. One well-known anthropology site offered a set of prizes recognizing outstanding posts, while another produced a reflective series examining why anthropology remains relevant and how online writing contributed to that relevance. A third platform created its own year-end review, revisiting the most compelling discussions shared by its contributors throughout the year.
These curated lists collectively showcased the growing importance of digital spaces in shaping contemporary anthropology. They demonstrated how anthropologists, students, and engaged readers were using online platforms to explore new ideas, challenge assumptions, and make the discipline more visible and accessible.
Many thanks go to the wonderful Jen Cardew for originally pointing me toward these valuable resources and helping draw attention to the exceptional work produced during that year.