Social and cultural anthropology is an important component of the UPSC anthropology optional syllabus. It involves the study of human societies and cultures, focusing on their social structures, beliefs, customs, and practices. To stay updated with the latest research and findings in this field, it is beneficial for UPSC aspirants to refer to specific journals that focus on social and cultural anthropology.


Here are some prominent journals that are relevant to UPSC anthropology optional syllabus:

1. American Anthropologist: This is the flagship journal of the American Anthropological Association. It covers a wide range of topics within anthropology, including social and cultural anthropology. It publishes original research articles, reviews, and commentaries.

2. Journal of Anthropological Research: This interdisciplinary journal publishes research articles in various subfields of anthropology, including social and cultural anthropology. It provides a platform for scholars to share their findings and contribute to the overall understanding of human societies and cultures.

3. Ethnography: This journal focuses on the practice and methodology of ethnographic research. It publishes articles that explore the social and cultural aspects of different communities and groups. Reading articles from this journal can provide valuable insights into the process of conducting ethnographic research.

4. Social Anthropology: This journal publishes research articles, review essays, and book reviews in the field of social anthropology. It covers a wide range of topics, including kinship, religion, politics, and identity. Reading articles from this journal can help UPSC aspirants gain a deeper understanding of the theoretical frameworks and concepts used in social anthropology.

5. Journal of the Royal Anthropological Institute: This journal publishes articles on a broad range of anthropological topics, including social and cultural anthropology. It features research from diverse cultural contexts and encourages interdisciplinary approaches.

6. Cultural Anthropology: This journal focuses on the cultural dimensions of human societies. It publishes articles that explore issues such as power, inequality, globalization, and identity. Reading articles from this journal can provide UPSC aspirants with a critical perspective on contemporary cultural phenomena.


Staying updated with the latest research and findings in social and cultural anthropology is crucial for UPSC anthropology optional syllabus. By referring to journals such as American Anthropologist, Journal of Anthropological Research, Ethnography, Social Anthropology, Journal of the Royal Anthropological Institute, and Cultural Anthropology, UPSC aspirants can enhance their understanding of the subject and improve their chances of success in the exam.