Anthropology (ANTH) Practice Test Anthropology)

The garbology project initiated by William Rathje focuses on studying modern refuse and the behavior surrounding waste disposal. This research offers significant insights into contemporary society by examining landfills, which act as a time capsule for current cultural practices, consumption patterns, and socio-economic structures.

The primary aim is to analyze the stratification of landfills, which provides a systematic way to understand what people discard and the volume and types of materials being thrown away in specific time periods. By identifying layers within the landfill, researchers can gain a clearer picture of modern lifestyles, consumption trends, and even the impacts of socio-political issues over time.

This approach allows anthropologists and archaeologists to draw parallels between past and present human behaviors, showcasing how our disposal methods reflect societal values and changing technologies. Therefore, the focus on stratification in landfills is crucial to understanding the waste generated by modern societies and brings to light the cultural significance of refuse as a reflection of human activity.

While the other options touch on relevant topics within the field, they do not encapsulate the main focus of Rathje's research project as accurately as the study of landfill stratification does.