Meaning: Franz Boas, a renowned anthropologist, made this statement in his address to the American Association for the Advancement of Science in 1898. In this quote, Boas acknowledges the profound impact of Charles Darwin's work on the field of anthropology. Boas credits Darwin with shaping the "currents of thought" in anthropology and acknowledges the instrumental role that Darwin's ideas have played in shaping the discipline.

Franz Boas was a key figure in the development of modern anthropology, and his acknowledgment of Darwin's influence reflects the widespread impact of Darwin's work on the social sciences. Charles Darwin, best known for his theory of evolution by natural selection, published his seminal work "On the Origin of Species" in 1859. This work revolutionized the way in which humans understood the natural world, and it had far-reaching implications for fields beyond biology, including anthropology.

Darwin's theory of evolution proposed that all species, including humans, had evolved over time through a process of natural selection. This idea challenged long-held beliefs about the origins of human beings and the diversity of life on Earth. In the context of anthropology, Darwin's work provided a new framework for understanding human origins and the diversity of cultures around the world.

One of the key concepts that Darwin's work introduced to anthropology was the idea of cultural evolution. Just as species evolved and adapted to their environments, Darwin's theory suggested that human cultures also evolved in response to their particular social and environmental conditions. This concept laid the groundwork for the study of cultural diversity and the ways in which different societies had developed unique customs, languages, and social structures over time.

In addition to the concept of cultural evolution, Darwin's emphasis on the interconnectedness of all life forms had a profound impact on the way anthropologists approached the study of human societies. Darwin's work highlighted the shared ancestry of all living beings, challenging the notion of human exceptionalism and encouraging anthropologists to consider the connections between humans and the natural world.

Furthermore, Darwin's emphasis on the role of adaptation and variation in shaping the diversity of life provided anthropologists with a new framework for understanding the range of human behaviors and cultural practices observed around the world. This perspective encouraged scholars to explore the ways in which different cultures had adapted to their specific environments and the ways in which cultural practices were shaped by ecological, social, and historical factors.

Overall, Franz Boas's acknowledgment of Darwin's influence on anthropology underscores the transformative impact of Darwin's ideas on the field. Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection and his insights into the interconnectedness of all life forms have helped to shape the way anthropologists understand human diversity, cultural evolution, and the relationship between humans and the natural world. By recognizing Darwin's contributions, Boas highlights the enduring legacy of Darwin's work in shaping the currents of thought within anthropology and the broader social sciences.