Brazilian Anthropology as seen in ABA data for the Global Survey of Anthropological Practice. From an imaginary nation to a defense of rights

Abstract The article explores the characteristics of Brazilian anthropology identified by analyzing response more than 300 anthropologists to GSAP. Even if there is a movement towards internationalization, data shows that majority in country conduct research Brazil and are employed universities. argues thematic foci most often chosen due anthropologist's public role combining with defense rights since 70’s. Social or cultural topical expertise anthropologists, followed ethnology. cited are: ethnicity social identity; urban anthropology; political Indigenous peoples colonialism; gender sexuality. In society where democracy not consolidated, an anthropological study rarely fails raise debate, either among as it was case for racial quotas or, either, confronting segments government. this sense, anthropology’s focus on national issues cannot be considered from European American point view same “anthropology at home”. voices Anthropologists present arena many cases have influenced state practices.