Questions and Answers
Who are the two prominent figures who introduced fieldwork as the definitive method of anthropological research?
What did Evans-Pritchard investigate in his fieldwork?
He investigated the sacrificial role of cattle among the Nuer
Why are the Nuer dependent upon their cattle?
The Nuer's cattle provides milk and meat for them
What does the ox that a son gets from his father at birth provide according to Evans-Pritchard?
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How do the Nuer imitate their cattle?
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What is the one exception when the Nuer can kill their cattle?
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What is armchair anthropology?
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What is Tylor's notion of social evolution?
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What is functionalism in the context of religion?
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What does 'off the verandah' imply in anthropology?
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How does religion have positive psychological functions being neither bad nor evil according to Malinowski?
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What is structural-functionalism?
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What are three methods to undertake in establishing an ethnography according to Malinowski?
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What was Malinowski's field of research?
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What is 'ethnographer's magic' according to Malinowski?
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What is the difficulty of carrying out an ethnography according to Malinowski?
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How is success achieved with ethnography according to Malinowski?
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The _____ of ___________ is to _____ the _______ point of ____
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How is the launching of the canoe inaugurated according to Malinowski?
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What is the sagali in Malinowski's research?
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How are the canoes personalised according to Malinowski?
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How are the canoes protected against the sun?
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What happens after the launching of the canoe?
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Study Notes
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.
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Description
Explore the significant contributions of Malinowski and Boas in establishing fieldwork as a key method in anthropological research. This flashcard set covers fundamental concepts from Evans-Pritchard's studies, including the cultural role of cattle among the Nuer community. Test your understanding of these essential anthropological methods and theories.
