This book is a collection of research papers presented at the national seminars of the Institute of Applied Anthropology at Kapasia, Gazipur. These papers were later revised by the respective authors for publication in this edited volume. Besides, some other research articles of the same nature and on the same subject were also included here. This is perhaps the first work on applied anthropology in Bangladesh. It deals with the origin, subject matter and methods of applied anthropology with particular reference to Bangladesh. The main focus of the articles included here is on action- oriented research, applied research, experimental research and indigenous knowledge with a view to achieving desired change in the rural community and in the life and living of the underprivileged and disadvantaged people. In short, this book emphasizes the need for action research and applied research to bring about positive change in the society. I consider that this book on applied anthropology would be of immense help and benefit to the students, scholars and future researchers in the same field. This may also help a great deal in the development of applied anthropology as an academic discipline and in promoting action and applied research in this part of the world. I am most grateful to all the contributors of the present volume whose active help and cooperation have made this venture possible. I cordially thank Mr. Monirul Haque of Anannya for publishing this work. I also thank Mr. Nurul Haque Sarker for preparing the manuscript of the present volume.
