Introduction to Anthropology Lecture Notes (PDF)

Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 Lecture 2, 24.10.2024 Presentation Manuela Ciotti Overview In this session, the topic of "Anthropology" and "culture" was explored, focusing on how to think as an anthropologist, based on Chapter 2...

Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 Lecture 2, 24.10.2024 Presentation Manuela Ciotti Overview In this session, the topic of "Anthropology" and "culture" was explored, focusing on how to think as an anthropologist, based on Chapter 2 of the relevant course material. Manuela Ciotti presented her research projects, which examine the "Anthropology of the Art World," and discussed the theme of "decolonizing anthropology." Key Concepts Understanding "Culture" Matthew Engelke shared insights from his fieldwork in Zimbabwe. During a conversation with one of his interlocutors, a misunderstanding occurred regarding the topic of "crickets." This misunderstanding led to what Engelke referred to as the "cricket accident." His interlocutor believed they were discussing food, and when he eventually ate a cricket and then vomited, it highlighted the clash between "cultural" expectations and bodily reactions. Engelke realized that "culture" influenced his interlocutor's response to eating crickets, demonstrating that body and mind are inseparably linked in "cultural" experiences. Manuela Ciotti also shared a personal experience from her time in India. While in Varanasi, a significant pilgrimage site, she was served fried fish. Upon learning that the fish was from the Ganges, her perception of the dish changed dramatically, prompting deep reflection on the relationship between "culture" and food. Definitions of "Culture" Ciotti explained that "culture" acts as a lens through which people view and understand the world. She described "culture" as a way of seeing things and thinking about them, as well as a mechanism for making sense of experiences. She emphasized that "culture" significantly influences what people consider food. "Culture" encompasses material elements such as houses, kilns, paintings, flags, and even food items like prawns and crickets. Ciotti highlighted that her physical reaction (vomiting) was not merely biological; it was also shaped by "cultural" factors. Sam Jošić Seite 1/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 Fieldwork and "Cultural" Experience Ciotti's and Engelke's experiences illustrate that many anthropologists encounter uncomfortable situations related to food. These experiences underscore the importance of fieldwork in both physical and digital contexts. Historically, "culture" and place have been closely intertwined, making the act of being observed in situ crucial. "Cultural" Perspectives on Food The discussion raised questions about why some "cultures" embrace certain foods, such as prawns, while rejecting others, like crickets. It examined why people enjoy large, multi-legged sea creatures yet find crickets unappetizing. Influential Theories Franz Boas, a prominent anthropologist, introduced the concept of "cultural glasses." This theory posits that everyone interprets the world through their "cultural" perspectives. References and Further Reading 1. Shrimp vs. Crickets: How Can Eating Insects Save the World? 2. Society and "Culture" as Container 3. Tackling the Nation-State Container Model in Statelessness Research: The Case for Ethnography Understanding “Culture” We interpret the world from our own unique standpoints, shaped by our various positions within it. This perspective influences how we perceive “culture” and understand its role in society and history (Source). The Objects of “Culture” In anthropology, “culture” has long been tied to physical objects, so much so that “material culture” is almost as widely recognized a term as “culture” itself. This is particularly significant in art projects, where physical artifacts reflect cultural meaning and values. Material “Culture” and the Art World Art holds a unique place within material “culture.” Through observing these art forms, anthropologists have turned attention toward the tangible aspects of “culture.” Sam Jošić Seite 2/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 Archaeologists, for example, have often centered their research around material “culture,” focusing on the physical remnants of historical societies. Thousands of individuals and institutions contribute to the meaning and value of art, including curators who help shape its significance. Art objects accumulate both symbolic and financial value over time, affecting their present and future impact. The “art world” can be seen as a global institution, composed of interconnected entities like the Viennale, art galleries, and museums. Although localized, these entities follow similar rules and aim towards a shared purpose, creating a unified concept of the “art world” that transcends national boundaries. The Limits of “Culture” “Culture” is not a magical solution for all societal or historical issues; we need to carefully consider the term and its applications. Simply invoking “culture” does not resolve complex challenges, nor should it be seen as a universal solution. Overuse of the term risks diluting its meaning, as anthropologists often study more than “culture” alone—they study “society” as well. This raises the age-old question: does society shape “culture,” or is it the other way around? Questioning “Culture” and Place The link between “culture” and location warrants deeper examination. In any given place, we find multiple “cultures,” not a single, monolithic “culture.” The Circulation of “Culture” “Cultures” are not static; they circulate, blend, and evolve. Art projects exemplify this, as they are deeply connected to the movement and exchange of “cultures.” Once “cultures” are set into motion, they take on new forms and meanings in the process. Beyond Borders: The Fluidity of “Culture” “Culture” is neither bound to specific locations nor fixed in time; it changes and adapts. When studying “culture,” we must recognize the dynamic processes at play rather than attempting to capture it at a single point in time and space. Research provides only a “snapshot,” as life and “culture” continue to change and evolve even as we study them. Sam Jošić Seite 3/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 “Culture” (and More) in Action: The Anthropology of the Art World The art world is characterized by the global circulation of art to diverse locations. Anthropologists ask: What does this circulation mean? How does it affect art, artists, institutions, societies, and economies? Art projects are continually evolving and becoming something new, never fixed. Each piece is supported by numerous institutions, shaping its journey and impact. Manuela Ciotti, for instance, questioned how the circulation of art influences the understanding of her work. She asked herself: What significance does this circulation hold? Where does an artwork originate, where does it go, and who curates its exhibitions? This circulation has far-reaching implications on the art world, institutions, economies, and societies. It allows us to view pieces from different cultural contexts within museums worldwide, highlighting the interconnected nature of the global art world. Moreover, much of the discussion and recognition of art takes place in the “Global North,” where non-Western art—such as Indian art—often competes for acknowledgment alongside Western icons like Andy Warhol. How Did It All Start? In 2010, The Empire Strikes Back: Indian Art Today exhibition took place at London’s Saatchi Gallery, curated within a collector’s personal mansion. Despite its name, this exhibition was unrelated to Star Wars; rather, it showcased the contemporary "cultural" work of Indian artists, some of whom were addressing politically charged themes, such as those from Dalit communities. This was part of a broader wave of globalized art exhibitions from the 1990s that sought to display the range of "cultural" practices in particular regions, creating survey-style exhibitions that included a variety of works and perspectives. Manuela Ciotti, captivated by the exhibit, noted its viral quality and the Saatchi Gallery's influence in making such exhibitions a global phenomenon. The exhibition catalog featured Eclipse 3 by Jitish Kallat, depicting "street kids with all of these things in their heads," symbolizing complex issues faced by contemporary Indian society. Artists like Pushpamala N. and Clare Arni used humor and critique to subvert colonial anthropometric projects; for example, they depicted a woman in nontraditional attire, mocking the colonial gaze and challenging gender norms. Sam Jošić Seite 4/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 Similarly, Kallat's works like Death of Distance explored the impact of cheap telecommunications on societal development, highlighting how accessible communication can coexist with the tragedy of poverty. Subodh Gupta’s U.F.O., another highlight, reflected his rural Indian background. By using everyday utensils, pots, and pans, he created sculptures and installations that showcased the transformation of humble materials into significant cultural symbols. Multi-Site Ethnography: Chasing Art Across the Globe The London exhibition in 2010 had a transformative effect on Ciotti’s research. Initially exploring different topics in the U.S., she discovered “multi-sited ethnography,” a method coined by George Marcus, which involves studying human activities across multiple locations. For instance, a wedding split across separate venues could be studied through this approach to capture the different cultural practices at each site. This method resonated deeply with Ciotti, and a series of serendipitous encounters guided her research in new directions. In 2011, she learned that India had set up a pavilion at the Venice Biennale, marking its first official presence since 1954. This experience led her to an obsession with documenting the circulation of Indian art internationally. She began by immersing herself in the Archive of the Viennale, which held extensive records of Indian "cultural" representation, and eventually, she conducted research on Indian art displays at various locations worldwide, including the Biennale in Kochi, Kerala, which prominently used colonial buildings as exhibition spaces. By 2012, she was tracking an array of events and exhibitions, such as a Mumbai Pavilion in Shanghai, set up in a repurposed power station. Kochi’s biennale, launched the same year, attracted attention through its online presence and use of historical colonial buildings, offering a powerful juxtaposition between old structures and contemporary art. Ciotti also traveled to New York in 2015, where she attended an exhibition covering Indian art from 1947 to 1997. This exhibit became an essential part of her fieldwork, as it involved daily visits and interactions with other researchers and artists from Dalit communities. In her research, Ciotti recognized Dubai’s significance as a hub for South Asian art, especially as the UAE hosts numerous art events and exhibitions. Sam Jošić Seite 5/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 Following the pandemic, she revisited Dubai, noting its role as a major node where art from South Asia converges in the global market. Ciotti’s Post-Factum Map of Multi-Site Research Through this multi-sited approach, Ciotti constructed a post-factum “map” of interconnected venues, each telling its own story of “cultural” exchange. She emphasized the importance of understanding how venues—whether power stations, colonial buildings, or conventional galleries—affect the art on display. Each site brings its unique influence on the artwork, from the physical characteristics of the venue to the audiences who visit. The varied nature of these spaces also prompts questions about the implications of venue choice. How does an industrial site or a colonial structure alter the perception of art? Is the experience the same across locations, or does each setting reshape the narrative? For example, Zarina, a Muslim artist, uses her art to reflect on the violent partition between India and Pakistan, connecting personal history with ancestral locations in Northern India. Global Circulation of Indian Art Indian art’s global circulation, particularly in biennales and exhibitions, has driven much discussion in the “Global North,” where non-Western art competes with dominant Western artists like Andy Warhol. However, these exhibitions challenge the notion of “culture” as bound to a single place or time, instead demonstrating its fluidity and resilience across global venues and audiences. Ciotti’s work reflects the dynamic processes of global art circulation. Her findings underscore the role of multi-site ethnography in capturing how "culture" constantly evolves, shifts, and adapts as it circulates around the world. Ethnography of the Art World in and out of India Manuela Ciotti’s ethnographic work extends across art venues within and outside India, aiming to understand the complex dynamics between India’s internal art scenes and its global circulation. Art’s movement from India into the world market not only fosters recognition for individual artists but also generates value—a process shaped largely by the very fact that these artworks circulate beyond India. Sam Jošić Seite 6/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 Some pieces, deemed national treasures, remain within the country, but many others accrue value precisely because they travel, raising artists' profiles and reinforcing the principle that “the more you are seen, the more you will be seen.” This phenomenon parallels how exclusive exhibits, like Vermeer’s first-ever comprehensive show in the Netherlands, not only attract massive crowds but also create a self-sustaining discourse around the artworks. This discourse evolves in stages: an initial novelty, then reviews and critical responses, each layer reinforcing the event’s significance. Similarly, Indian artist Subodh Gupta’s work, often crafted from humble kitchenware, transforms everyday items into profound statements. For example, Gupta’s Atomic Mushroom, displayed in a mall lobby in Delhi, turns cookware into symbols of artistic power, creating a public-private blend that challenges the boundaries between domesticity and high art. Art Institutions: Biennales, Museums, Auction Houses Art institutions operate in distinct ways within the art ecosystem. Galleries act as the primary market, transitioning works from studios to public buyers. Auction houses, by contrast, serve as secondary markets, where art is resold, often fetching higher values due to the established reputations of artists or works. Biennales and museums provide exhibition spaces without immediate transactions, yet these venues influence future purchases as collectors view works, make notes, and consider them for acquisition at later events like art fairs. These institutional differences shape the paths and values that artworks accrue, making certain venues essential as windows into art’s future movements and markets. Ethnographic Methodology: Fieldwork Techniques Ciotti’s research in the art world combines participant observation, visual analysis, and conversations with artists, complemented by digital media and archival research. She attends openings, engages in informal dialogues, and analyzes physical and online art spaces. Her approach reflects an interest in the “macro cosmos” of the art world, viewing art circulation not as isolated events but as threads weaving together India’s national identity and its global perceptions. Her core question examines how “Indianness” plays out as art crosses cultural boundaries. Sam Jošić Seite 7/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 Her ethnographic techniques also reveal the diversity of art spaces themselves. Venues like warehouses—particularly prominent in the Kochi Biennale—reflect India’s adaptation of industrial structures for creative use, contrasting with more polished gallery spaces in New York’s Chelsea district. Here, galleries like Hauser & Wirth present Indian art within expensive, high-profile neighborhoods, juxtaposing local Indian art’s industrial, communal settings with the luxury of New York’s art markets. Opening and Closing Events: Vernissage and Finissage Openings, or vernissages, are crucial for observing art’s interaction with audiences. Ciotti notes distinct cultural differences, from New York’s subdued, wine-free launches to India’s festive openings featuring tea and samosas, highlighting how hospitality and the viewer experience vary across locales. This regional variation offers insight into how art institutions reflect broader cultural expectations and community engagement. Digital vs. Physical Engagement in the Art Market Ciotti’s experiences at art auctions underscore the hybrid nature of art events today. In 2013, she attended an auction at Mumbai’s Taj Mahal hotel, dressing formally for the prestigious event. One year later, Ciotti participated in an online auction from India, attending casually from home. These contrasting modes—digital and physical—exemplify the accessibility of art markets today and the shift in experience between live and online events. A screenshot from Google “Arts & Culture” reveals how even the Kochi Biennale, with its hybrid model, became accessible to global audiences, bridging digital repositories and physical exhibits. Cultural Appropriation and Ownership Ciotti observes the frequent blending of cultural artifacts with contemporary fashion, from Indian gold rings and bangles to linen blouses, embodying forms of “cultural appropriation.” This phenomenon extends to the branding of the Kochi Biennale, where posters around town displayed children and “hippies” embracing the event with the phrase, “It’s our Biennale.” This slogan reflects an attempt to “own” the institution, fostering local familiarity and pride while educating the public on the concept of a biennale as both an international and community-driven event. Sam Jošić Seite 8/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 The Queens Museum in New York presents a digital video work that encapsulates the notion of cultural exchange, with artwork resonating with both local and global themes, marking a focal point in Ciotti’s ongoing investigation of how Indian art and culture redefine themselves on the world stage. Open Questions and Reflections Ciotti’s approach in her work is exploratory rather than strictly prescriptive. She emphasizes that she isn’t necessarily drawn to research topics that align with her own preferences. Instead, she focuses on understanding where and how art and culture create impacts across different contexts, piecing together information to form comprehensive answers and analyses. Projects Emerging from This Research The insights from Ciotti’s research lead naturally into broader discussions about reshaping anthropology, especially through the lens of decolonization. Decolonizing Anthropology The concept of “decolonizing anthropology” is gaining prominence, encouraging anthropologists to examine the discipline’s roots, goals, and methodologies. This involves asking foundational questions: What is the purpose of our research? Who benefits from it? How do we engage meaningfully with the communities we study? Importantly, decolonization in anthropology demands critical reflection on teaching practices and departmental cultures, ensuring that they align with anti-racist goals and speak effectively to classrooms increasingly filled with diverse perspectives. Critical Questions by Gupta & Stoolman: ○ Why do we conduct specific types of research and use certain methods? ○ How can we reshape teaching practices to resonate with diverse, multicultural classrooms? ○ What changes are necessary to make anthropology an anti-colonial, anti-racist discipline? These reflections aim to dismantle traditional structures in the discipline and create pathways for research and teaching practices that are more inclusive, equitable, and aligned with social justice. Sam Jošić Seite 9/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 Reimagining Anthropology Gupta & Stoolman suggest re-envisioning anthropology by placing historically marginalized issues—such as genocide, slavery, indigenous displacement, and forced migration—at the center of study. This reimagined discipline would focus on topics like indigenous knowledge systems, reparations, land reclamation, and justice initiatives. Critical approaches would be directed at borders, nationalism, extractive industries, and industrial agriculture, redefining the discipline to address global, intersectional issues. Shaping a Decolonized Discipline: The To-Do List (Gupta & Stoolman) Key questions for reshaping anthropology into a decolonizing field include: What subjects should we be studying to promote an anti-racist, anti-colonial agenda? How do our current methods either support or limit decolonization? How can collaborative practices, in both research and teaching, contribute to a decolonized anthropology? Collaboration, although essential, can be complex and may involve challenges, including potential issues of misrepresentation and unequal credit distribution. Practical Implications of Decolonizing Anthropology Gupta & Stoolman highlight practical considerations for implementing decolonization principles: 1. Community Rights in Research: Ethical research would respect the rights of the communities studied, acknowledging their agency over how they are represented in scholarly work. 2. Rethinking Accreditation: In a decolonized framework, recognition and authorship might need to shift toward collective or shared authorship models that give credit to community contributions and collaborative research. Sam Jošić Seite 10/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 3. Decolonized Pedagogy: With classrooms becoming more diverse, pedagogical practices must be re-evaluated to better reflect non-white perspectives and global contexts, reducing the dominance of Western perspectives, particularly those from the United States. 4. Reconsidering Authorship: Projects that involve extensive community knowledge or collaboration might benefit from a shared authorship approach, challenging traditional, individualistic models of academic credit. In essence, these questions and proposed shifts call for a deeper, structural transformation within anthropology, aiming to create a discipline that reflects and respects diverse voices and global realities. Lecture 3, 07.11.2024 Presentation Peter Schweitzer "Infrastructures and Built Environment" Why Study Infrastructure? Infrastructure is a vital aspect of human life, deeply embedded in both history and daily existence. While often associated with modernity and "First World" ideologies, infrastructure has existed throughout human history, shaping societies in profound ways. Infrastructure, in its decay and persistence, reflects historical contexts and evolving functions. Key Texts and Theoretical Foundations Over the past decade, infrastructure has become a significant area of scholarly interest, with foundational texts emerging from various disciplines. Peter Schweitzer initially engaged with railway infrastructure but found limited literature. Key influences include Susan Leigh Star, who approached infrastructure from sociology and Science and Technology Studies (STS), and AbdouMaliq Simone, who introduced the concept of "People as Infrastructure" in 2012. These scholars laid the groundwork for contemporary infrastructure theory. Sam Jošić Seite 11/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 More recent works, such as The Promise of Infrastructure (Duke University Press) and Natalia Buier’s The Anthropology of Infrastructure: The Boom and the Bubble (2023), examine infrastructure’s theoretical boundaries. Alessandro Rippa’s writings further bridge infrastructure with environmental anthropology. Defining Infrastructure Brian Larkin’s definition emphasizes the physical and relational aspects of infrastructure: “Infrastructure is matter that enables the movement of other matter.” This definition extends beyond tangible components, like cables, to include the immaterial, such as software. Similarly, Susan Leigh Star underscores infrastructure’s invisibility in daily life, only becoming apparent during breakdowns. Infrastructure, fundamentally, involves both materiality and relational dynamics. Political Dimensions of Infrastructure Infrastructure is inherently political. Scholars like Van Schnitzler and Venkatesan highlight its role in reconfiguring anthropological approaches to politics. Research on infrastructural violence (e.g., Rodgers and O’Neill) explores power dynamics and the societal impacts of infrastructure. Harvey and Knox address the enchantment of infrastructure—its promises of progress—and the disillusionment when these promises fail, such as unfulfilled projects or unintended environmental consequences. Traditional Topics and Materiality The promise of modernity is central to infrastructure studies. Material differences, such as those between paved and unpaved runways, highlight the tangible impacts of infrastructure on daily life. Scholars like Hanna Knox also explore the emotional and affective dimensions tied to infrastructure, emphasizing nostalgia and memories associated with past systems, such as Soviet-era projects. Recent Trends in Infrastructure Studies 1. Nature as Infrastructure: Early debates framed rivers and other natural features as infrastructures. Alessandro Rippa’s concept of “environing infrastructure” investigates how natural and built infrastructures intersect, particularly in postcolonial contexts. Sam Jošić Seite 12/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 Indigenous scholars like Winona LaDuke propose alternatives, such as "Wiindigo Infrastructure," critiquing colonial models and advocating for sustainable, community-serving infrastructures. 2. Colonial and Community Perspectives: Infrastructure often reflects colonial legacies. Current trends emphasize rethinking infrastructure to serve local communities’ needs. For example, the RATIC (RAPID ARCTIC TRANSITION DUE TO IMPACT CLIMATE CHANGES) group incorporates natural and social sciences to address Arctic challenges. The Anthropology of Remoteness Anthropology has historically focused on remote areas, often shaped by colonial contexts. Remoteness is relational, defined in connection to other places or power centers. Edwin Ardener’s work on Scottish islands, for instance, reveals how remoteness fosters unique social dynamics. Modern perspectives revisit remoteness not as a deficit but as an asset, particularly in tourism where it is marketed as pristine and untouched. Transport Infrastructure and Remoteness Transport systems in remote regions, such as the Arctic, often serve extractive purposes, prioritizing resource transportation over local needs. Projects like the BAM (Baikal-Amur Mainline) illustrate how infrastructure can simultaneously connect and isolate regions, creating new configurations of remoteness. Infrastructure in Arctic Communities The INFRA-NORTH project investigates the role of transport infrastructures in sustaining Arctic communities. This research highlights diverse transport modes, including roads, airports, and seaports, and their varying impacts on local populations. While airports provide essential year-round mobility, seaports often prioritize resource extraction, offering limited local benefits. Local Responses to Infrastructure Development Communities often resist imposed infrastructures, fearing negative social and environmental consequences. For example, protests against mining roads reflect concerns over outsider influence and resource competition. Yet, there are cases of Indigenous control and advocacy for infrastructure, such as Inuvik’s highway, built through local lobbying. Sam Jošić Seite 13/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 Anthropological Climate Change Studies Anthropology’s engagement with climate change includes observational studies on how communities experience and adapt to environmental shifts. Reception studies incorporate media and external narratives, examining how these influence local perceptions. Projects like Nuna investigate permafrost thaw and its implications for Arctic communities. The Anthropocene and Sustainability The Anthropocene highlights humanity’s profound impact on the Earth, though its status as a geological epoch remains debated. Sustainability, rooted in sustainable development, is increasingly central, particularly in critiques of “green colonialism.” Indigenous opposition to windmill projects in Northern Norway exemplifies the tension between environmental initiatives and local autonomy. Conclusion Infrastructure studies offer a lens to examine the intersections of materiality, politics, and community dynamics. From Arctic transport systems to global debates on sustainability, infrastructures shape and are shaped by the environments and societies they serve. Understanding these complexities is essential for fostering equitable and sustainable solutions. Lecture 3, 07.11.2024 Presentation Tatjana Thelen "Care and State" Next Monday, there is an upcoming event featuring the presentation of two of the most recent publications by André Thiemann and Christof Lammer. Tatjana Thelen's lecture today delves into her research experiences and how they relate to larger themes of social inequalities, conflict, and care. Project 1: Classical Research on Peasants, Social Inequalities, and Conflict Thelen began her career as an economic anthropologist. Sam Jošić Seite 14/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 Upon completing her Master’s studies, she encountered comments suggesting that, as a new mother, she could now pursue research with children. Rejecting this stereotypical expectation, she chose a field perceived as traditionally male-dominated: researching peasants. Her Master’s thesis focused on the ethnic identity of Hungarian Germans, and she became interested in what happens to property during privatization, inspired partly by her engagement with a leftist collective. Her initial research hypothesis stemmed from a literature review: in Romania, there would likely be a return to pre-socialist property arrangements (supported by law), whereas Hungary would avoid such a return. Thelen conducted classical village ethnography, staying with families, engaging in agrarian labor, and spending time in the offices of agrarian advisers. This immersion allowed her to deeply understand the community dynamics over two years. Key Insights and Fieldwork Experiences Pig Slaughter and Property Distribution: Thelen observed surprising contrasts. In Hungary, distribution aligned more with attachment to property, contrary to her expectations. Serendipity also played a role: while searching for archival materials, she discovered “Kulak lists” in a school attic. These lists, identifying wealthy peasants targeted for expropriation, revealed the extent of arbitrary violence that disrupted social reproduction. This violence, particularly in Hungary, disproportionately affected women and eroded traditional structures. Gendered Perspectives on Property: While older men romanticized their connection to the land, associating it with identity and pride, women often remembered pre-socialist times with negativity, linking land ownership to hard labor, domestic violence, and isolation. Women’s exclusion from the compensation process further highlighted systemic gender disparities. Labor and Generational Dynamics: The extraction of seeds using traditional methods, such as spicy pepper harvesting, exemplified gendered labor practices. Sam Jošić Seite 15/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 Women eventually resisted this physically taxing and health-harming work, which opened broader discussions about generational negotiations and the persistence of gender roles. Afterlife of Research Themes Returning to the Hungarian village in 2009, Thelen observed the remnants of her research themes. Infrastructure, labor practices, and social dynamics had undergone significant changes, yet traces of historical grievances persisted. Large-scale landowners dominated agriculture, while mistrust among villagers reflected fractured community ties. Although property was seen as a relic of the past, its centrality to discussions of social equality remained relevant, echoing themes in Thomas Piketty’s work. These observations connected historical injustices with contemporary political and social challenges. Field 2: Participant Observation in a Large Enterprise Post-PhD, Thelen joined the Max Planck Institute’s legal anthropology group, where her research focused on social security within large enterprises. Under socialism, enterprises often provided healthcare, childcare, and other social services, serving as hubs for community life. Her chosen site was a formerly large enterprise in Rostock, now fragmented into smaller departments. Through her ethnography, Thelen explored the concept of care and its evolution post-socialism. One significant event was a veterans’ Christmas party, which highlighted the emotional resonance of such gatherings. Although the event appeared mundane—a speech by the managing director, coffee and cake, and dancing—it unveiled deeper social and political undercurrents. Key themes included: Biographical Expectations and Care: Interlocutors linked care provision to their life trajectories and collective memories. For many, these events symbolized continuity and pride amidst systemic changes. Sam Jošić Seite 16/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 East-West Dynamics: Conversations revealed lingering tensions between “Western” and “Eastern” Germans, manifesting in critiques of managerial approaches and perceptions of occupation. Emotional Value vs. Material Provision: While the party offered limited material benefits, its emotional and social significance was profound, reflecting biographical embedding and a sense of belonging. Concluding Reflections: Why Should We Bother? Thelen argued that these seemingly small-scale observations have broader implications. Changes in property, labor, and care practices reveal the afterlives of socialism and the persistence of social inequalities. These dynamics are not merely relics of the past but continue to shape contemporary political and economic landscapes. The emotional and biographical significance of events like the Christmas party underscores the complex interplay between private and public, neutral and political, and care as both a personal and collective experience. The lecture closed with a reflection on the ongoing relevance of such research. Understanding the afterlife of socialism and the embedded grievances within communities offers critical insights into current political and social challenges. Lecture 4, 14.11.2024 Presentation Janina Kehr "Health Matters. Critical Medical Anthropology Today" Here is your lecture summary, organized into a structured, continuous text to enhance your study experience: Medical Anthropology and Global Health On November 14, 2024, the lecture on Medical Anthropology and Global Health explored how health is perceived and how it influences our lives. Sam Jošić Seite 17/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 A word cloud poll initiated the discussion by asking, "What is (part of) medicine?" and "What is not (part of) medicine?" This exercise highlighted the omnipresence of medicine in modern society, echoing Damien Hirst’s bar pharmacy quote, emphasizing that it's challenging to envision our existence without medicine. Defining Health The World Health Organization (WHO), an agency of the United Nations, defines health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being. This definition sets the stage for understanding health beyond the mere absence of disease. Key Topics in Medical Anthropology The lecture delved into various global contexts of health: Cancer in Botswana: Illustrates how pain is experienced differently across cultures. Shaun in Cuba: Explores the relationship between medicine and the state. Sienna Craig in Tibet: Focuses on traditional Tibetan medicine and healing practices. Chronic Kidney Failure in Mexico: A case study on chronic illness. These case studies raise questions about the intimate connections between the body, pharmaceuticals, and society. Medical Anthropology: A Comprehensive Approach Medical anthropology examines the social, political, and economic aspects of illness, posing critical questions about life, death, and the body. The field uses ethnographic methods and collaborates with public researchers and policymakers to address health-related issues from both micro and macro perspectives. Sam Jošić Seite 18/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 Interactive Exercise: What Constitutes Medicine? Participants identified elements integral to medicine, such as pharmaceuticals, medical infrastructure, care, and hope. Conversely, they also considered what lies outside the realm of medicine, including feelings, religion, and myths, highlighting the boundaries of medical perception. Focus Areas in Medical Anthropology The lecture emphasized the focus on bodies, environments, diseases, microbes, algorithms, and plants, demonstrating the interconnectedness of health with various life forms and systems. Why Study Medical Anthropology? Health topics serve as a "window to the world," showing that perspectives vary based on individual health status and the infrastructures they interact with. These perspectives are always embedded in specific societal structures. Giorgio Brocco’s Presentation: Disability and Environmental Pollution Brocco discussed the impact of environmental pollution in Martinique, particularly the use of chlordecone in plantation systems. Despite its carcinogenic properties, chlordecone was used extensively, raising issues about societal divisions and state responsibilities. Veronika Siegl’s Presentation: Ethics, Inequality, and Economies Siegl's research on commercial gestational surrogacy in Russia and Ukraine highlighted the ethical dilemmas and secrecy surrounding assisted reproduction technologies (ARTs). She introduced the concept of "ethical labor," which frames surrogacy as a labor of love and mutual benefit, contrasting with its commercial implications. Pharmaceuticalization and Public Health The lecture addressed the increasing reliance on pharmaceuticals, such as antibiotics and benzodiazepines, which have led to issues like resistance and dependency, posing significant public health challenges. Sam Jošić Seite 19/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 Concepts in Pharmaceutical Anthropology The lecture concluded with two critical concepts: Cultural Efficacy: Pharmaceuticals carry cultural meanings and play a vital role in how illnesses are identified and interpreted. Fluid Drugs: The uses and implications of pharmaceuticals vary across different contexts, with examples like the black market highlighting their societal impact. The lecture also referenced Sheryl Hamdy's ethnographic work linking disease with politics and mentioned an upcoming masterclass with Wahlberg from Copenhagen, focusing on these interdisciplinary connections. This structured narrative integrates all key points, making it easier for you to review and understand the material for your multiple-choice exam. Lecture 4, 14.11.2024 Presentation Sanderien Verstappen "Introduction to Visual Anthropology" Visual Anthropology and Multimodal Anthropology The lecture on November 14, 2024, explored the domain of Visual Anthropology, a sub-discipline intersecting with art history, media studies, and visual sociology. This field investigates the use and impact of visual media, examining practices of viewing, creating, and being observed. Defining Visual Anthropology Visual Anthropology encompasses research on visual practices and conducting research through visual means, such as visual ethnography. An illustrative project discussed was Empty Home, an exploration of visual ethnography, focusing on the contexts and implications of vacant houses. Research on Visual Practices Central to this discipline are questions about how people engage with visual media. Sam Jošić Seite 20/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 An example is a Master's project on audience ethnography, examining how Dutch audiences engage with Indian films and the fan communities around Bollywood stars. This research involved participatory observation at the Hindustani film festival and explored the cultural appropriation of dance and visual media by Dutch-Surinamese communities, descendants of Indian migrants from Suriname, a former Dutch colony. Cultural Implications of Visual Media These communities found a sense of normalcy and identity through Indian films, which were accessible via subtitled DVDs, bridging linguistic gaps with their heritage. Such films fostered a sense of belonging among a relatively invisible and often marginalized group, depicted as "undeserving" and "poor." Visual Media in Other Contexts Marina Stoilova examined online Kurdish wedding videos, while Janaki Abraham studied the evolution of wedding videos in North Kerala, focusing on the role of videographers in shaping these rituals. These studies highlight how visual media captures and transforms social practices. The Role of Art Models Anna-Maria Stabentheiner's work in Tokyo explored the role of art models, who, despite being central to the creative process, often find their agency diminished by the attribution of creativity to the "genius" artist. She examined the dynamics of being viewed and the implications of the male gaze in art production. Ethnographic Approaches in Visual Studies Visual ethnography extends beyond traditional textual analysis to incorporate visual and other non-textual forms of representation. Sarah Pink emphasizes that ethnography is about creating and representing knowledge, continuously questioning how alternative means of representation affect understanding. Case Study: Empty Home in Wuhan The Empty Home project, conducted by Sanderien Verstappen, Willy Sier, and Wendy, explored rural-urban migration in China. It highlighted the stark inequalities between urban and rural citizens within a two-class system, shaped by historical shifts from socialist policies discouraging private home ownership to neoliberal reforms. Sam Jošić Seite 21/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 Despite an increase in housing, many homes remain vacant due to their owners' inability to inhabit them, reflecting broader socio-economic challenges. Lecture 5, 21.11.2024 ?? Lecture 6, 28.11.2024 Presentation Hermann Mückler "The Importance of Ethnohistorical Image Research as Part of Visual Anthropology in the Age of the “Iconic Turn” Lecture 6, 28.11.2024 Manuela Ciotti Decolonizing Anthropology On November 28, 2024, the lecture focused on the critical task of decolonizing anthropology, a field grappling with its historical and ongoing biases. The session explored the transformation of ethnography and the identity of anthropologists, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and self-reflection. To Do List for Decolonizing Anthropology A key part of decolonization involves questioning who the anthropologists are. The discipline must examine its composition and the voices it amplifies. The term "we" in anthropology is scrutinized to understand the diversity and representation within the field. Ethnography and the Identity of Anthropologists The transformation of the body of anthropologists is essential, acknowledging that their social categories and regions of training significantly impact their perspectives. Conversations around these topics have historical roots, with scholars like Gupta & Ferguson initiating early discussions in 1997 about who represents the field. Sam Jošić Seite 22/23 Lecture Summaries “Orientation” in the Study Programme and Anthropological Research Fields WiSe 2024 Who Speaks for Whom? Ethnography is employed to challenge and interrogate the dynamics of representation—who speaks for whom and whose voices are prioritized in anthropological narratives. This interrogation is crucial in breaking down the dominance of WEIRD (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, Democratic) perspectives, a term coined by Henrich, Heine, and Norenzayan to highlight the narrow demographic that often forms the basis of research, despite comprising a small fraction of the global population. Challenges in Publication and Representation There are structural challenges in the dissemination of anthropological knowledge. Many publications require open access fees, which can be prohibitively expensive, limiting accessibility and contributing to a bias towards Western readership. Scholars like Chua & Aptu advocate for a more inclusive approach that challenges the presumption of a homogenous Western audience. Notable Contributions and Theoretical Frameworks Dipesh Chakrabarty: His work Provincializing Europe offers a postcolonial critique, urging a move away from Eurocentric historical narratives. Achille Mbembe: In The Blackening of the World, Mbembe addresses global racial dynamics, pushing for a more inclusive understanding of history and society. Current Debates and Controversies The lecture also touched on contemporary debates and controversies, such as the high costs associated with attending academic panels like those of the American Anthropological Association (AAA). It highlighted the reputational challenges faced by platforms like the Allegra Lab and the political tensions involving figures like Toni Vauci. The Pictorial Turn Mückler's upcoming discussion on the "Pictorial Turn" suggests a shift in the field, although details on this topic were not extensively covered in the lecture. Sam Jošić Seite 23/23