Visual Anthropology & Ethnography w/ Michael Hicks

Oct 3

In this episode of Anthropuzzled, we talk with Michael Hicks, an Anthropology Practitioner and Documentary Photographer, about how visual anthropology can illuminate pressing social and political issues.

Michael has studied across all four fields of anthropology, but his work centers on cultural and political dynamics. He believes that to understand any system, whether a business or nonprofit, you must look at its interconnections. This perspective guides his varied career, which spans academic research, applied fieldwork, and nonprofit work. Recently, as a Data Analytics Manager, he analyzed strategies for reducing generational poverty in Philadelphia.

Before transitioning fully into anthropology, Michael spent more than a decade as a photojournalist, creating in-depth documentary projects for international publications. His work took him from documenting the struggles of post-earthquake Haiti to exploring global issues like e-waste. Michael emphasizes respect and empathy in his process, connecting with participants before photographing them to ensure authentic representation.

Join us to hear how Michael weaves together photography, politics, and anthropology to better understand and address social challenges.