Fieldwork in Anthropology Week 2

Fieldwork and Armchair Anthropology

• Malinowski and Boas are key figures who established fieldwork as a principal method in anthropological research.
• Evans-Pritchard's research focused on the cultural significance of cattle among the Nuer people.
• The Nuer rely on their cattle for milk and meat, highlighting the economic dependence on this livestock.
• An ox given to a son at birth serves as a symbol of identity within Nuer society.
• To emulate their cattle, Nuer individuals remove their lower incisors, showcasing cultural practices linked to livestock.
• The only circumstance allowing Nuer to kill cattle is during sacrificial rituals, reflecting the spiritual importance of these animals.
• Armchair anthropology involves a researcher reflecting on gathered ethnographic data, rather than conducting fieldwork.

Concepts in Anthropology

• Tylor proposed a theory of social evolution progressing from animism to polytheism, ultimately to monotheism.
• Functionalism posits that religion serves beneficial roles in society, contributing to social cohesion and individual well-being.
• The phrase 'off the verandah' emphasizes the necessity of engaging in direct cultural immersion and study.

Malinowski's Contributions

• Malinowski argued that religion fulfills psychological needs, particularly the human desire for immortality.
• Structural-functionalism suggests that social structures are necessary for fulfilling various societal functions.
• Malinowski outlined three methods crucial for effective ethnography: establishing scientific objectives, living among subjects, and applying specific data collection techniques.
• His explorations included canoe-related magic in the Kula exchange system, revealing the intersection of spirituality and commerce.
• 'Ethnographer's magic' refers to the ability to fully comprehend the perspectives of the indigenous populations studied.

Challenges and Goals in Ethnography

• Malinowski acknowledged challenges such as feelings of boredom and loneliness encountered during fieldwork.
• Success in ethnography is achieved through a methodical application of common sense alongside scientific methodologies.
• He stated, 'The goal of ethnography is to grasp the natives' point of view', underlining the importance of understanding cultural perspectives.

Kula Magic and Canoe Practices

• Canoe launches are preceded by rituals involving kula magic, emphasizing the integration of cultural beliefs in practical activities.
• The sagali refers to the ceremonial distribution associated with Kula exchanges, highlighting social significance.
• Personalization of canoes includes naming them and painting them, transforming them into culturally significant objects.
• Canoes are protected from sun damage using plaited coconut leaves, demonstrating resourcefulness in material culture.
• Following the canoe launch, a feast is held, reflecting communal ties and cultural celebrations.