What does the term 'foraging' refer to in anthropology?

Foraging, in the context of anthropology, specifically refers to the practice of collecting wild plants and hunting animals for food. This lifestyle is typically associated with hunter-gatherer societies, where people rely on naturally available resources rather than engaging in agriculture or animal husbandry. Foraging encompasses a wide range of activities, including gathering edible plants, fishing, and hunting, which are all essential for the subsistence of communities that do not cultivate crops or keep domesticated animals.

This practice is significant in understanding human evolution and the development of social structures, as it shapes the way communities interact with their environment and each other. Foraging contrasts with agricultural practices, domestication of animals, and economic systems based on trade or barter, highlighting the diversity of human survival strategies throughout history. Understanding foraging allows anthropologists to explore the adaptability and resilience of societies in varying ecological contexts.