Anthropology - a supporting pillar in the cognitive science edifice?

Three decades ago, the cognitive sciences were established as the joint effort of six disciplines, united by the common goal of exploring the foundations of human cognition. Based already on twenty years of cognitive work, anthropology had become a supporting pillar in this interdisciplinary edifice that contributed to and benefited from the ongoing exchange of ideas, theoretical concepts, and methods. Since then, however, anthropology's presence and influence has continuously decreased to the extent that it is now, and particularly so in the German-speaking areas, no longer even recognized as a potential partner in this interdisciplinary endeavor. This paper aims to make a case for changing this infelicitous situation. It exemplifies why cognitive approaches are still important for anthropology and why anthropology is indispensable for the cognitive sciences; it highlights some of the attempts that have been undertaken recently to improve the relationship; and finally, it tries to demonstrate why engaging in interdisciplinary cooperation is of mutual benefit.