A section of the the American Anthropological Association
Welcome to the Association for the Anthropology of Policy (ASAP)
Supporting the study of policy as social, political, and cultural phenomena.
In-Depth Research
Discover comprehensive studies and reports that shed light on policy implications.
Community Engagement
Join a vibrant community of scholars and practitioners dedicated to policy anthropology.
Educational Resources
Access a wealth of resources designed to support your academic and professional journey.
Understanding the anthropology of policy
The anthropology of policy examines the processes and effects of policy-making through an anthropological lens. It is significant for policy scholars, practicing anthropologists, graduate students and experts as it provides critical insights into how policies are formulated, implemented, and experienced by different communities. This field bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, enabling anthropologists to contribute meaningfully to the understanding of policy, policy debates and their developments.
What's new with ASAP
Get Involved with ASAP
Become a member
Become an active member and consider joining one of our committees. Collaborate with peers and contribute to the advancement of our section.
Browse our resources
Take advantage of our curated educational resources including syllabi, bibliographies, news items, member publications including scholarly books and articles, and more.
Our Statement on Systemic Racism
ASAP condemns racist state violence, supports the BLM movement, and commits to actively challenging systemic racism through policy advocacy, scholarly work, and institutional accountability.