JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL ANTHROPOLOGICAL INSTITUTE

Scope & Guideline

Elevating Research in the Study of Humanity

Introduction

Immerse yourself in the scholarly insights of JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL ANTHROPOLOGICAL INSTITUTE with our comprehensive guidelines detailing its aims and scope. This page is your resource for understanding the journal's thematic priorities. Stay abreast of trending topics currently drawing significant attention and explore declining topics for a full picture of evolving interests. Our selection of highly cited topics and recent high-impact papers is curated within these guidelines to enhance your research impact.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN1359-0987
PublisherWILEY
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1995 to 2001, from 2004 to 2024
AbbreviationJ ROY ANTHROPOL INST / J. R. Anthropol. Inst.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address111 RIVER ST, HOBOKEN 07030-5774, NJ

Aims and Scopes

The Journal of the Royal Anthropological Institute focuses on advancing anthropological knowledge through diverse methodological approaches and interdisciplinary perspectives. It aims to publish innovative research that engages with contemporary social issues and cultural practices, drawing from a wide array of geographical contexts.
  1. Cultural Anthropology:
    Research focused on understanding cultural practices, beliefs, and social structures within different societies, emphasizing ethnographic methods to uncover nuanced local perspectives.
  2. Political Economy:
    Exploration of economic systems, power dynamics, and their impact on social relations, often addressing themes of inequality, globalization, and development.
  3. Environmental Anthropology:
    Investigation of human-environment interactions, including the impacts of climate change, sustainability practices, and indigenous ecological knowledge.
  4. Gender and Sexuality Studies:
    Critical analysis of gender roles, identities, and sexualities in various cultural contexts, highlighting issues of power, agency, and resistance.
  5. Migration and Mobility:
    Studies focusing on the implications of migration, displacement, and transnationalism, looking at how these movements shape identities and social structures.
  6. Indigenous Studies:
    Research that centers on indigenous peoples' perspectives, rights, and cultural heritage, often challenging colonial narratives and advocating for social justice.
  7. Methodological Innovation:
    Encouragement of new methodological approaches in anthropology, including digital ethnography, participatory research, and interdisciplinary collaborations.
The Journal of the Royal Anthropological Institute has been increasingly publishing on a variety of emerging themes that reflect current global concerns and innovative anthropological approaches. These trends highlight the journal's responsiveness to the evolving landscape of social issues and anthropological inquiry.
  1. Digital Anthropology:
    An increasing number of studies focus on the intersection of technology and culture, exploring how digital platforms influence social interactions, identity formation, and cultural practices.
  2. Climate Change and Environmental Justice:
    Research addressing the social implications of climate change, environmental degradation, and ecological justice has gained prominence, reflecting the urgent need for anthropological perspectives on these global challenges.
  3. Social Movements and Activism:
    There is a rising interest in documenting and analyzing grassroots movements, resistance strategies, and the role of anthropology in social change, emphasizing the discipline's relevance in contemporary political contexts.
  4. Health and Well-being:
    Emerging studies that examine health systems, mental health, and social determinants of health illustrate a growing focus on the anthropological implications of health and wellness in various cultural settings.
  5. Urban Anthropology:
    An increased emphasis on urban contexts and the complexities of urban life, including migration, social networks, and cultural diversity, reflects a trend towards exploring anthropological issues in metropolitan settings.
  6. Transnational Studies:
    Research that investigates the dynamics of transnationalism, diasporas, and cross-border interactions highlights the fluidity of cultural identities and social relations in a globalized world.

Declining or Waning

While the journal continues to explore a broad range of anthropological themes, some areas have seen a noticeable decline in prominence in recent publications. These waning scopes may indicate shifting academic interests or changing social contexts.
  1. Traditional Anthropological Theory:
    There has been a notable decrease in papers strictly adhering to classical anthropological theories, such as structuralism or functionalism, in favor of more contemporary and critical frameworks.
  2. Colonial Studies:
    Although colonialism remains an important topic, the frequency of papers solely focused on colonial histories and impacts has diminished, with a shift towards discussions of postcolonialism and contemporary implications.
  3. Forensic Anthropology:
    Research in forensic anthropology appears to be declining, perhaps reflecting a broader trend in anthropology moving away from specialized forensic applications towards more holistic cultural and social examinations.
  4. Archaeological Anthropology:
    Studies specifically centered on archaeological methods and findings seem less prevalent, suggesting a potential shift towards living cultures and contemporary social issues rather than historical artifacts.
  5. Ethnobotany:
    Papers examining traditional plant use and knowledge have become less common, indicating a possible waning interest in this niche area within the broader field of anthropology.

Similar Journals

Asia Pacific Journal of Anthropology

Navigating the Depths of Cultural Diversity
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1444-2213Frequency: 5 issues/year

Asia Pacific Journal of Anthropology is a premier academic journal dedicated to advancing the field of anthropology and cultural studies, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd. With an ISSN of 1444-2213 and E-ISSN 1740-9314, this journal has gained recognition for its rigorous scholarly contributions since its inception in 2000. Situated in the UK, it is strategically positioned to serve as a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students exploring the rich complexities of human societies and cultures within the Asia Pacific region and beyond. As evidenced by its Q2 ranking in both anthropology and cultural studies for 2023, alongside its impressive Scopus ranks—#218 among 1304 in Cultural Studies and #157 among 502 in Anthropology—this journal illustrates a strong commitment to delivering high-quality, impactful research. While it is not an open-access journal, it remains a key platform for disseminating innovative research and fostering academic dialogue, thereby significantly contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the social sciences.

China Perspectives

Engaging with China: A Platform for Scholarly Exploration
Publisher: FRENCH CENTRE RESEARCH CONTEMPORARY CHINAISSN: 2070-3449Frequency: 4 issues/year

China Perspectives, published by the esteemed French Centre Research Contemporary China, is a leading academic journal that delves into the diverse, multifaceted dimensions of contemporary Chinese society, culture, and political landscape. With an ISSN of 2070-3449 and an E-ISSN of 1996-4617, this journal has established itself as a significant contributor to the fields of Cultural Studies, Political Science, and Geography, reflected in its impressive rankings, including Q2 in Cultural Studies and Q3 in Political Science and International Relations as of 2023. The journal aims to provide a platform for rigorous scholarly discussions and innovative research, accommodating contributions from established researchers and emerging scholars alike, making it a vital resource for anyone interested in understanding China and its global implications. As an open-access journal, it ensures that valuable insights and findings are readily available to a wider audience, promoting engagement and discourse within academia and beyond. With publication spanning from 2007 to 2024, China Perspectives continues to shape discussions and foster critical research in the understanding of contemporary China.

Cuadernos de Antropologia

Exploring the Depths of Human Culture
Publisher: UNIV COSTA RICA, FAC CIENCIAS SOCIALESISSN: 1409-3138Frequency: 2 issues/year

Cuadernos de Antropología is a premier academic journal published by the University of Costa Rica, Faculty of Social Sciences, that has been contributing to the field of anthropology since 1983. With its commitment to Open Access, this journal ensures that research findings are readily available to a global audience, fostering collaboration and knowledge dissemination across various regions and disciplines. Although specific metrics like H-index or Scopus Rankings are not provided, the journal's long-standing history and accessibility underscore its importance in promoting anthropological research in Latin America and beyond. Covering a broad spectrum of topics within anthropology, Cuadernos de Antropología welcomes submissions from researchers, professionals, and students, aiming to enrich the academic landscape with diverse perspectives and innovative insights. Located in the heart of Costa Rica, the journal serves as a vital platform for advancing the understanding of cultural, social, and historical contexts that shape human behavior.

Anthropological Forum

Connecting Scholars to Transformative Ideas
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0066-4677Frequency: 4 issues/year

Anthropological Forum, an esteemed journal in the field of anthropology, is published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd. With an ISSN of 0066-4677 and an E-ISSN of 1469-2902, the journal has cemented its reputation for fostering critical discussions and innovative research since its inception in 1963. Covering a broad range of topics within anthropology, it has achieved an impressive Q1 ranking in the category of Anthropology and a Q2 ranking in Arts and Humanities (miscellaneous) in 2023, showcasing its pivotal role in advancing scholarly discourse. With a Scopus ranking placing it in the top 10% of its field, the journal provides valuable insights into contemporary anthropological issues, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. Although not an open-access journal, the comprehensive studies and articles published within its pages contribute significantly to the academic and professional community. Addressed out of Milton Park, Abingdon, UK, the Anthropological Forum remains a seminal platform for disseminating high-quality anthropological research.

Anthropological Notebooks

Bridging Disciplines for a Deeper Understanding of Humanity
Publisher: SLOVENE ANTHROPOLOGICAL SOCISSN: 1408-032XFrequency: 3 issues/year

Anthropological Notebooks, published by the SLOVENE ANTHROPOLOGICAL SOC, is a noteworthy journal within the field of anthropology. Established in Slovenia, this journal aims to provide a platform for scholarly dialogue and dissemination of anthropological research, fostering interdisciplinary approaches and global perspectives. Although it currently holds a Q4 quartile ranking in anthropology and ranks #421 out of 502 in Scopus, it serves as an essential conduit for emerging voices and innovative ideas in the discipline. Covering research published from 2010 to 2019 and from 2021 to 2024, the journal invites contributions that explore diverse cultural narratives and anthropological insights. Despite its limited open access options, Anthropological Notebooks remains a crucial resource for researchers, professionals, and students seeking to engage with contemporary anthropological discourse and enrich their understanding of human societies.

Social Anthropology

Navigating the Complexities of Social Behavior
Publisher: BERGHAHN JOURNALSISSN: 0964-0282Frequency: 4 issues/year

Social Anthropology is a leading journal published by BERGHAHN JOURNALS, focusing on the diverse and dynamic field of anthropology. With an ISSN of 0964-0282 and an E-ISSN of 1469-8676, this open-access journal has been a cornerstone of scholarly communication since its inception in 1982, becoming fully accessible to the public since 2022. Situated in the United States, the journal aims to disseminate high-quality research that explores sociocultural dimensions of human behavior across various contexts, addressing pressing contemporary issues through a multidisciplinary lens. With impressive rankings, including Q2 in Anthropology and Arts and Humanities, and strong positions in Sociology and Developmental Psychology according to Scopus metrics, Social Anthropology serves as an essential platform for researchers, professionals, and students committed to advancing our understanding of social practices and cultural norms. Its commitment to fostering intellectual discourse makes it a vital resource for those seeking to deepen their knowledge and insight into the anthropological landscape.

Economic Anthropology

Innovating Perspectives on Economic Behavior
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 2330-4847Frequency: 2 issues/year

Economic Anthropology, published by WILEY, is a leading journal dedicated to advancing the interdisciplinary understanding of economic practices through anthropological research. With an ISSN of 2330-4847, this journal navigates the intricate connections between economic systems and cultural contexts, providing a platform for both theoretical and empirical studies since its inception. As a testament to its scholarly impact, it holds a Q1 ranking in Anthropology and a Q2 ranking in Economics and Econometrics as of 2023, positioning it among the top journals in these fields. The journal ranks #86 out of 502 in Social Sciences for Anthropology and ranks #338 out of 716 in Economics, reflecting a significant percentile positioning of 82nd and 52nd respectively. Although the journal operates under a subscription model, its comprehensive scope and dedicated attention to emergent economic phenomena make it a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students who seek to deepen their insights into the economic dimensions of human behavior and social structures. Join the community of scholars contributing to this dynamic field as you explore innovative perspectives on the intersection of culture and economy.

DIALECTICAL ANTHROPOLOGY

Illuminating the Nuances of Dialectical Thought
Publisher: SPRINGERISSN: 0304-4092Frequency: 4 issues/year

DIALECTICAL ANTHROPOLOGY, published by SPRINGER, is a prestigious journal within the field of anthropology, recognized for its substantial contributions to dialectical and critical theory in social research. Since its inception in 1975, the journal has carved a niche by exploring the intersections of culture, society, and politics, making it an essential resource for scholars and practitioners. With an impact factor that places it in the Q2 category for both anthropology and arts and humanities, and significant rankings in sociology and political science, it reflects a solid scholarly reputation. The journal operates on a subscription basis, allowing for a wide dissemination of rigorous academic research without open access. With ISSN 0304-4092 and E-ISSN 1573-0786, DIALECTICAL ANTHROPOLOGY serves as a crucial platform for fostering dialogue and advancing knowledge in contemporary anthropology and related disciplines. As a researcher, professional, or student, engaging with the insights presented in this journal will deepen your understanding of the dynamic interplay between structural and agency-oriented perspectives in social contexts.

AMERICAN ANTHROPOLOGIST

Fostering scholarly dialogue across cultures and disciplines.
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 0002-7294Frequency: 4 issues/year

American Anthropologist is a prestigious journal published by Wiley, dedicated to advancing the field of anthropology. With a rich publishing history dating back to 1888, it has become a leading platform for scholarly discourse, showcasing innovative research and diverse perspectives from around the globe. The journal holds impressive ranks within its categories, being recognized as Q1 in both Anthropology and Arts and Humanities, alongside a notable Scopus ranking of #36 out of 502 in Social Sciences. Its robust impact in academia is reflected in its emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches that resonate within the fields of social science and humanities. Researchers and students alike are encouraged to contribute to this vital resource that continues to shape anthropological thought and practice. For those interested, the journal is tailored for non-open access, ensuring the curation of high-caliber scholarly work accessible to a wide audience while supporting the standards of peer-reviewed publications.

AIBR-Revista de Antropologia Iberoamericana

Exploring the Depths of Ibero-American Cultures
Publisher: ASOC ANTROPOLOGOS IBEROAMERICANOS EN REDISSN: 1695-9752Frequency: 3 issues/year

AIBR-Revista de Antropologia Iberoamericana is a premier scholarly journal published by the ASOC ANTROPOLOGOS IBEROAMERICANOS EN RED, dedicated to advancing research and discussion in the fields of Anthropology and Cultural Studies. Since becoming an Open Access publication in 2006, this journal has facilitated the dissemination of valuable insights and innovative perspectives, making its contributions widely accessible to scholars, professionals, and students alike. Based in Madrid, Spain, it serves as a crucial platform for anthropological research emanating from the Ibero-American context. The journal is recognized within the academic community, achieving a commendable Q2 ranking in both Anthropology and Cultural Studies categories as of 2023, and ranks favorably in Scopus, highlighting its significance and impact in the field. Researchers seeking to contribute or engage with contemporary anthropological discourse will find AIBR a critical resource for knowledge production and scholarly exchange.