The 9th International Conference on Business Anthropology has just concluded. Held online on May 27th and 28th, 2023, this conference was proudly sponsored by the Andreas School of Business, Barry University， USA. ( https://www.barry.edu/en/ ) It was exciting to finally have this conference running after a prolonged COVID-19 pandemic. The conference’s opening ceremony saw the participation of over 100 attendees, with Dr. Shirley Ye Sheng from Barry University serving as the host. Dr. Bogdan Daraban, the dean of Andreas School of Business and Public Administration at Barry University, delivered a warm welcome address to the audience. We were also privileged to have three esteemed guest speakers: Professors Gang Chen (Yunnan University of Finance and Economics), Tianjing Wang (Central University for Nationalities), and Zamir Ahmed Awan (Sinologist, Professor, Engr. , and former diplomat), who delivered insightful speeches during the opening ceremony, as well as a detailed presentation in B1 Session. Additionally, Dr. Russell Belk from York University delivered a keynote speech titled “Facial Identity: When the Face is a Challenge to the Self.”
In total, received approximately 100 submitted papers for this conference. Among them, 50 articles are in Chinese, and 42 are in English. The selected articles, which will undergo a strict peer-review process, will be featured in a special issue of the upcoming International Journal of Business Anthropology.
During the past two days, the conference participants engaged in exchanging ideas, exploring knowledge, and celebrating intellectual contributions. The conference was well received and praised by the audience. It truly demonstrated the power of collaboration and the pursuit of knowledge.
Speech of Prof. Engr. Zamir Awan at the Opening Ceremony:
Speech at the opening ceremony.
Distinguished guests, Ladies, and Gentlemen,
Good Morning
I am Zamir Awan from Pakistan. I am honored to attend this Conference for the second time. My special gratitude to the organizers, especially Dr. Tian Guang, for providing me with this opportunity.
Today, I stand before you to shed light on an emerging field that holds great promise in today’s modern world: Business Anthropology. This interdisciplinary approach combines the insights and methodologies of anthropology with the world of business, offering a fresh perspective on how organizations can thrive in an ever-evolving global landscape. Allow me to share with you the importance, application, and need for Business Anthropology in our society.
First and foremost, Business Anthropology provides us with a deeper understanding of human behavior within the context of commerce. Examining cultural practices, social structures, and individual beliefs, it enables us to comprehend the intricacies of consumer decision-making, employee motivation, and market dynamics. Such knowledge empowers businesses to tailor their strategies and offerings to meet the needs and desires of diverse customer segments.
Furthermore, Business Anthropology fosters a culture of empathy and inclusivity within organizations. Anthropologists recognize the value of diversity and appreciate the influence of cultural backgrounds on individuals’ perceptions and behaviors. By embracing this understanding, companies can create inclusive work environments, improve communication, and enhance collaboration among their employees. This, in turn, cultivates innovation and a sense of belonging, leading to higher employee satisfaction and productivity.
Moreover, the application of Business Anthropology extends beyond the internal dynamics of organizations. It equips businesses with the tools to navigate cross-cultural interactions and global markets successfully. In today’s interconnected world, companies often operate across borders, encountering diverse cultural norms and practices. Business Anthropology helps in bridging cultural gaps, facilitating effective negotiation, and building fruitful relationships with stakeholders from different backgrounds. This cultural competency is crucial for businesses to expand their operations globally and forge mutually beneficial partnerships.
Additionally, Business Anthropology promotes ethical and sustainable business practices. Anthropologists are keen observers of the impact of economic activities on societies and the environment. By integrating anthropological insights, companies can develop business models that prioritize social responsibility, environmental sustainability, and long-term value creation. Through this lens, organizations become more mindful of their impact on communities and ecosystems, leading to a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
Lastly, the need for Business Anthropology arises from the rapidly changing nature of the business landscape. Traditional approaches to business often struggle to keep pace with evolving consumer preferences, technological advancements, and cultural shifts. By incorporating the principles of anthropology, businesses can gain a competitive edge by anticipating trends, adapting to changing market conditions, and fostering innovation. Business Anthropology offers a fresh lens through which organizations can analyze, understand, and respond to the complex dynamics of our ever-changing world.
In conclusion, Business Anthropology stands as a vital discipline in today’s modern world. Its importance lies in its ability to provide businesses with a comprehensive understanding of human behavior, enhance inclusivity, facilitate cross-cultural interactions, promote ethical practices, and adapt to the evolving business landscape. By embracing Business Anthropology, companies can forge stronger connections with their customers, employees, and stakeholders while fostering sustainable growth and creating a positive impact on society. Let us embrace this interdisciplinary field and embark on a journey of innovation, empathy, and success.
Thank you.
Prof. Engr. Zamir Ahmed Awan, Founding Chair GSRRA, Sinologist (ex-Diplomat), Editor, Analyst, and Non-Resident Fellow of CCG (Center for China and Globalization). (E-mail: awanzamir@yahoo.com).
PowerPoint Presentation at Session BI by Zamir Awan titled ” A Case Study of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor”
