Question at position 57 What does anthropology say about symbolism?a. the need for symbolism is universalb. symbolism is connected to power in societyc. symbolism is secondary to utilitya & b above

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In this question, we’re looking at what anthropology says about symbolism and we’re given four options to evaluate.
Option a: 'the need for symbolism is universal.' This suggests that all human beings rely on symbolic meaning in some form. Anthropology often emphasizes that symbolism is pervasive across cultures, serving as a fundamental layer of human cognition and culture, so it is plausibly true. However, some theorists might nuance this by noting variations in symbolic complexity, yet the claim of universality is a common anthropological position.
Option b: 'symbolism is connected to power in society.' This aligns with many anthropological analyses that examine how symbols, meanings, and rituals reinforce social hierarchies, legitimacy, and political power. Symbolic systems often function to uphold or contest power dynamics, making this statement widely supported.
Option c: 'symbolism is secondary to utility.' This asserts that symbolic meaning is less important than practical use. Many anthropologists would argue that symbolic meaning often shapes and even enables practical behavior, and that meaning and function are deeply intertwined, so this claim underplays a central role of symbolism in culture.
Option d: 'a & b above' This combines the ideas from options a and b, asserting both universal need for symbolism and its connection to power, which captures two well-supported strands in anthropology: symbolism is widespread across human cultures and is frequently entwined with social power structures. 
By weighing the statements, option c is the weakest because it minimizes the role of symbolism, whereas options a and b reflect established anthropological observations. The composite option (a & b above) therefore cohesively represents the commonly discussed aspects of symbolism in anthropology. 
Thus, understanding the question’s framing, the combination 'a & b above' is the most consistent choice with anthropological perspectives, while option c fails to acknowledge the centrality of symbolic meaning, and option d captures the intended composite assertion.

Question at position 57 What does anthropology say about symbolism?a. the need for symbolism is universalb. symbolism is connected to power in societyc. symbolism is secondary to utilitya & b aboveSingle choice

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