Meaning: The quote by Edward Sapir, a prominent American anthropologist and linguist, reflects his perspective on the evolving nature of cultural anthropology. In this quote, Sapir suggests that cultural anthropology is increasingly recognizing itself as a discipline deeply rooted in historical inquiry. To fully comprehend the significance of this statement, it is essential to delve into the historical context of cultural anthropology and Sapir's contributions to the field.

Cultural anthropology is a branch of anthropology that focuses on the study of human cultures, societies, and behaviors. It seeks to understand the complexities of human diversity, social customs, traditions, and belief systems across different societies and historical periods. Throughout its development, cultural anthropology has undergone significant shifts in theoretical approaches and methodological frameworks. From early evolutionary perspectives to more contemporary understandings of culture as dynamic and context-dependent, the discipline has continuously evolved to adapt to the changing landscapes of human societies.

Edward Sapir was a key figure in shaping the field of cultural anthropology during the early 20th century, particularly through his influential work in linguistic anthropology. He emphasized the interconnectedness of language, culture, and cognition, highlighting the role of language in shaping and reflecting cultural worldviews. Sapir's interdisciplinary approach contributed to a more holistic understanding of human societies, emphasizing the interplay between language, history, and culture.

When Sapir asserts that cultural anthropology is "more and more rapidly getting to realize itself as a strictly historical science," he underscores the growing recognition within the discipline of the crucial role of history in understanding cultures. This perspective aligns with the broader trend in anthropology towards historical contextualization and the rejection of ahistorical, universalizing theories about human societies.

In embracing its identity as a "strictly historical science," cultural anthropology acknowledges the significance of historical processes, events, and contexts in shaping cultural phenomena. This recognition prompts anthropologists to critically engage with historical narratives, colonial legacies, and power dynamics that have influenced and continue to impact diverse cultures worldwide.

Moreover, Sapir's assertion implies a shift away from static, timeless depictions of cultures towards a more dynamic and historically grounded approach. By emphasizing the historical dimension of cultural anthropology, Sapir encourages scholars to explore the temporal dimensions of culture, considering how societies change over time, respond to historical events, and adapt to external influences.

From a methodological standpoint, Sapir's view suggests a call for anthropologists to incorporate historical sources, archival research, and oral histories into their investigations of culture. This historical turn in cultural anthropology invites scholars to critically examine the construction of knowledge about different cultures, challenging essentialist or static representations in favor of historical contextualization and nuanced understandings.

By situating cultural anthropology within a historical framework, scholars can gain deeper insights into the complexities of human societies, acknowledging the multiplicity of historical trajectories and the ongoing processes of cultural change. This historical consciousness also fosters reflexivity within the discipline, prompting anthropologists to critically assess their own positionality and the historical contexts that shape their research perspectives.

In conclusion, Edward Sapir's quote encapsulates the evolving nature of cultural anthropology as a discipline that increasingly recognizes the significance of historical inquiry. By embracing its identity as a "strictly historical science," cultural anthropology acknowledges the intricate interplay between culture and history, challenging static representations in favor of historically grounded understandings of human diversity and societal dynamics. Sapir's perspective continues to resonate within the field, guiding anthropologists towards a more nuanced and historically informed approach to the study of cultures and societies.