How is the biosphere defined in anthropology?

The biosphere is defined as the global sum of all ecosystems, representing the living world surrounding us. In anthropology, this term refers specifically to the interplay between living organisms, including humans, and their environments. The biosphere encompasses terrestrial, aquatic, and atmospheric ecosystems where living organisms interact with one another and their physical surroundings. This concept highlights the interconnectedness of life, emphasizing how humans, along with other organisms, are integral parts of this dynamic system.

By understanding the biosphere, anthropologists can explore the relationship between culture and the environment, examining how various cultures respond to ecological factors and how these interactions influence social structures, practices, and beliefs. This perspective is crucial for studying human adaptation and sustainability in various environments.

The other options do not accurately capture the definition of the biosphere. Cultural systems, non-living aspects of the planet, and economic systems represent different dimensions of human experience and societal organization but do not encompass the living interactions that define the biosphere as a concept in anthropology.