Anthropology, Fieldwork & Global Challenges – A Conversation with Prof. Geert De Neve

In this episode, Dr Syeda Sana Batool spoke with Professor Geert De Neve, Head of the School of Global Studies at the University of Sussex. Trained initially in economics before turning to anthropology, Prof. De Neve shares what drew him to the discipline and how it continues to shape his understanding of the world. Drawing on decades of fieldwork in South India, he reflects on the complex realities of work, inequality, and everyday life, and how these local experiences connect to global issues like climate change, migration, and digital labour.We also explore the role of fieldwork in anthropology, what makes studying the subject at Sussex unique, and how students can approach communities with care and ethics. From leadership insights to student advice, this conversation offers valuable perspectives for anyone interested in anthropology, social justice, and global change.