The anthropological self is a concept within anthropology that delves into the study of how individuals and societies perceive and construct identity within their cultural and social contexts. This approach emphasizes cultural relativism, encouraging the understanding of a culture on its own terms without imposing external values. Key aspects of the anthropological self include exploring identity formation within cultural frameworks, analyzing symbolic systems like language and rituals, and considering the impact of social structures on individuals' perceptions of themselves.

Ethnography, a method involving immersive fieldwork and participant observation, is commonly used to gain insights into the intricacies of self-perception within different cultures. Anthropologists also engage in cross-cultural comparisons to identify both commonalities and differences in how individuals conceptualize the self. The concept underscores the dynamic interplay between individuals and their cultural environments, highlighting the social construction of reality and the influence of institutions and power dynamics on identity formation. In essence, the anthropological self provides a lens through which to appreciate the diversity of human experiences and the multifaceted nature of identity within varying cultural landscapes.