My road to becoming a cultural anthropologist was anything but simple. I enjoyed two very different careers prior to pursuing my education and training in anthropology. It was the loss of my friend and classmate on September 11, 2001, that ultimately led to an overwhelming desire to make a contribution; to broker between cultures in conflict, and perhaps find a way to prevent the kind of tragedy the whole world suffered early on a September morning. A chance encounter with a cultural anthropologist during a 2003 airport layover in Chicago introduced me to the idea of how I might understand why the attacks occurred, and how it may be possible to advocate for peaceful alliances where there have been generations of conflict and division.

As an anthropologist, my interests include Kurdish culture and history, the anthropology of policy, migration, anthropology of the Middle East, identity negotiation, conflict negotiation, and the human impacts of climate change. My research aims to understand the complexities of human migration and the impact of immigration policies on refugees, asylum seekers, and other migrants. I am particularly interested in exploring how political divisions affect the experiences of these individuals, as well as the broader social and cultural implications of migration.

In recent years, immigration policies have become increasingly politicized, leading to a rise in anti-immigrant sentiment and the demonization of refugees and asylum seekers. Through my research, I will deeply explore the realities of human migration, including the economic, social, and political factors that drive individuals to leave their homes and seek refuge elsewhere.
I am also interested in understanding how the process of seeking asylum and resettlement affects the identities and experiences of migrants, particularly as they navigate complex legal systems and often face discrimination and marginalization in their new communities.

Ultimately, my goal is to contribute to a more nuanced and compassionate understanding of human migration, and to advocate for policies that prioritize the dignity and well-being of all individuals, regardless of their country of origin or legal status.

There are four sub-fields of anthropology: cultural, biological, archaeology, and linguistics. ANTHROPALOOZA.COM will feature original research and articles by working anthropologists in all four sub-fields from all over the world. We are currently working to produce a podcast called “ANTHROPODCAST” where topics will be discussed from an anthropological perspective. While we construct our site, please be invited to contact me by email or connect with me through social media. I look forward to developing a dynamic and fascinating collection of content for the enjoyment and benefit of anyone interested in people from every time and place.

Sincerely,
Stephen Fox