Which field of anthropology uses specialized knowledge to address specific cultural problems?

Applied anthropology is the field that utilizes specialized knowledge to tackle specific cultural problems. This branch of anthropology focuses on practical applications of anthropological theories and methods to real-world issues, such as health care, education, community development, and social justice. By engaging directly with communities, applied anthropologists can develop interventions and solutions informed by the cultural context of those they are working with.

In contrast, socio-cultural anthropology studies the social and cultural aspects of human behavior but may not always aim at practical resolution of contemporary problems. Ethnology, which compares and analyzes the characteristics of different peoples and the relationships between them, typically involves more theoretical, comparative work rather than direct application. Comparative anthropology, while examining similarities and differences across cultures, does not primarily focus on solving specific cultural problems. Thus, applied anthropology stands out for its emphasis on using anthropological knowledge for practical, problem-solving purposes.