Human Relations Area Files

Human Relations Area Files

Abbreviation	HRAF
Formation	1949
Type	Research agency
Purpose	Anthropological database
Headquarters	New Haven, Connecticut
Location	United States
President	Carol R. Ember
Website	yale.edu/hraf

The Human Relations Area Files (HRAF) is a non-profit research agency based at Yale University. Established in 1949 by anthropologist George Peter Murdock, HRAF is dedicated to facilitating the comparative study of human cultures. The organization curates a large database that includes ethnographic and archaeological data on a wide range of cultures from around the world.

History

The concept of HRAF originated from the work of its founder, George Peter Murdock, who sought to create a systematic approach to comparing cultural information across global societies. The initial project was funded by the Carnegie Corporation and later supported by the National Science Foundation.

Purpose and Function

The primary aim of HRAF is to promote understanding of cultural diversity and commonality in the human experience. It achieves this by providing access to culturally comparative information organized according to specific themes, regions, and cultural characteristics. This organization of data facilitates cross-cultural research in fields such as anthropology, sociology, psychology, and area studies.

Collections

HRAF's collections are divided into two main types: the eHRAF World Cultures and the eHRAF Archaeology.

eHRAF World Cultures

This collection consists of ethnographic documents organized by cultures and subjects, allowing for comprehensive comparative studies of human behavior, social life, customs, material culture, and much more.

eHRAF Archaeology

The eHRAF Archaeology contains in-depth descriptions of archaeological traditions from around the world and is a valuable resource for comparative studies in prehistory.

Methodology

HRAF employs a unique indexing system known as the Outline of Cultural Materials (OCM). This system allows researchers to access information based on specific subjects and cultural characteristics, which are meticulously indexed by HRAF staff.

Impact and Usage

Researchers, educators, and students across various disciplines use HRAF's collections for a wide range of scholarly and educational purposes. The files have been particularly influential in advancing cross-cultural studies and are integral to comparative research methodologies in anthropology and related fields.

See Also

• Cultural anthropology
• Ethnography
• Cross-cultural studies
• George Peter Murdock