Daily Archives: February 17, 2009

In Defense of Anthropology

As an Indigenous person I have often been asked ‘why are you an anthropologist?’  The question is rooted in an Indiana Jones type image of anthropologist roving around the world stealing cultural objects and knowledge form indigenous peoples or ancient societies.  But it’s not a depiction of the real world practice of anthropology as I practice it.  Nor is it more than a shallow reflection of what anthropology may have been.  Anthropology has had a problematic history filled with warts and blemishes. Nonetheless, as we recognize the ills of the past we need to affirm and build upon the strengths of the present.

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