In "Love Over Scotland" by Alexander McCall Smith, the protagonist reflects on the nature of anthropology and its connection to personal experience. She believes that understanding human behavior and culture starts with one's own surroundings and community, much like charitable acts often begin with helping those close to us. This insight emphasizes the importance of local context in grasping broader social dynamics.

The quote suggests that to appreciate different cultures and practices, one should first observe and engage with the familiar. This highlights the significance of personal connections in both anthropology and charity, reinforcing the notion that deeper understanding often stems from intimate knowledge of one’s immediate environment.