Why Researchers Choose American Anthropologist for High-Impact Publications

American Anthropologist stands as a cornerstone in the field of anthropology, offering researchers a platform to disseminate groundbreaking work in cultural, biological, linguistic, and archaeological studies. Established in 1899 by the American Anthropological Association, this flagship journal has evolved into a vital resource for scholars worldwide. Its rigorous peer-review process ensures that only the most innovative and methodologically sound research reaches publication, making it a preferred choice for academics aiming to influence global discourse.

With a focus on interdisciplinary approaches, American Anthropologist bridges traditional anthropology subfields while embracing contemporary issues like globalization, identity, and environmental anthropology. The journal's commitment to open access options and ethical publishing practices further enhances its appeal. Researchers value its historical depth combined with modern relevance, as evidenced by its consistent ranking in top quartile categories in Scopus and Web of Science.

For deans and department heads, publishing in American Anthropologist signals excellence in faculty output, supporting tenure and promotion decisions. The journal's broad readership, including policymakers and practitioners, amplifies the real-world impact of anthropological research. Whether exploring human evolution or sociocultural dynamics, contributors find a welcoming yet demanding venue that elevates their scholarly profile.

To explore opportunities, consider submitting your manuscript through the official portal or reviewing anthropology faculty positions to align research with career goals. Always include /rate-my-professor and /academic-calendar in your planning.

Overview & History

American Anthropologist, the premier journal of the American Anthropological Association, was founded in 1899 to advance anthropological knowledge across subdisciplines. Over more than a century, it has published seminal works that shaped the discipline, from early ethnographic studies to cutting-edge theoretical debates. Today, it remains a bimonthly publication featuring articles, book reviews, and commentaries that reflect the diversity of anthropological inquiry.

The journal's evolution mirrors anthropology's growth, incorporating digital humanities and decolonial perspectives. Its archives, accessible via AnthroSource, provide invaluable resources for historical research. For department leaders, understanding this legacy underscores the journal's role in fostering institutional prestige.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

American Anthropologist encompasses the full spectrum of anthropology, emphasizing holistic approaches to human societies and cultures. It welcomes submissions on topics ranging from kinship and ritual to human rights and climate change impacts.

Interdisciplinary work integrating these areas is particularly encouraged, aligning with the journal's mission to promote dialogue across fields.

Key Journal Metrics

These metrics highlight American Anthropologist's influence, with steady growth in citations reflecting its relevance in academic and applied settings.

Indexing and Abstracting

American Anthropologist is indexed in major databases, ensuring wide visibility. Key services include Web of Science (Arts & Humanities Citation Index, Social Sciences Citation Index), Scopus, Anthropology Plus, and JSTOR. It is also listed in DOAJ for open access content and PubMed for relevant biological anthropology articles. This comprehensive coverage aids discoverability, crucial for researchers tracking tenure-track anthropology jobs.

Publication Model and Fees

As a hybrid journal, American Anthropologist offers subscription-based access with optional open access. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for gold open access is $3,200, waivable for corresponding authors from low-income countries per AAA policy. No fees apply for traditional subscription publication. Check Sherpa/RoMEO for self-archiving rights, which support green open access.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Manuscripts are submitted via the ScholarOne platform at the official journal site. Guidelines emphasize original research, up to 8,000 words, with anonymized reviews. Authors must adhere to AAA style, including Chicago citations. The process typically takes 3-6 months from submission to decision. For tips, visit graduate school anthropology programs resources.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial team, led by Editor-in-Chief Kimberly Christen (Washington State University), includes experts from top institutions like Harvard and UCL. Associate editors specialize in subfields, ensuring balanced oversight. Their diverse backgrounds enhance the journal's global perspective.

Why Publish in American Anthropologist?

Publishing here offers prestige, with articles cited in policy reports and media. It boosts academic careers, aiding rate my professor evaluations. The journal's AAA affiliation provides networking opportunities at annual meetings.

Comparison with Similar Journals

American Anthropologist excels in breadth, distinguishing it from more specialized peers.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

Ensure novelty and theoretical contribution. Engage with recent issues for trends. Use clear, accessible language. Collaborate internationally for stronger submissions. Track academic calendar deadlines. Revise based on feedback to improve chances.