An Anthropology of Disappearance: Politics, Intimacies and Alternative Ways of Knowing

This book explores the anthropological perspective of human life and death, absence and presence, rituals and mourning, liminality and structures, citizenship and personhood, and agency and power regarding disappearances in various cultural, social, and political contexts. It addresses methodological, epistemological, and ethical challenges of researching disappearances and the disappeared.

Format: Hardback
Length: 298 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2023
Publisher: Berghahn Books

All across the globe, individuals vanish from their families, communities, and the watchful eyes of governmental authorities, becoming victims of oppressive regimes or embarking on clandestine journeys while migrating. This comprehensive volume brings together esteemed scholars who engage in ethnographic research on these disappearances, exploring them within diverse cultural, social, and political contexts. Adopting an anthropological lens, the chapters delve into profound inquiries concerning human life, death, absence, presence, rituals, mourning, liminality, structures, citizenship, personhood, agency, and power. They examine the political dimension of disappearances and address the methodological, epistemological, and ethical complexities inherent in researching disappearances and the disappeared. The interplay of disappearance through political violence, crime, voluntary disappearance, and migration renders this book a singular and captivating exploration.

Introduction:
The phenomenon of disappearances has captivated the world for centuries, leaving families, communities, and governments grappling with the profound absence of their loved ones. These disappearances can occur as a result of oppressive regimes, conflicts, or migration, often shrouded in secrecy and mystery. This volume seeks to shed light on these disappearances by bringing together scholars from various disciplines who engage ethnographically with these cases.
Anthropological Perspective:
Anthropology provides a unique lens through which to examine disappearances. It emphasizes the importance of cultural, social, and political contexts in understanding the experiences of the disappeared and their families. By immersing themselves in the lives of those affected by disappearances, scholars can gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and nuances of these events.
Political Dimension:
The political dimension of disappearances is a central theme in this volume. The chapters explore the ways in which disappearances are used as tools of oppression, control, and violence by governments, armed groups, and other actors. They also examine the political consequences of disappearances, such as the erosion of human rights, the displacement of communities, and the breakdown of social structures.
Methodological Challenges:
Researching disappearances and the disappeared presents methodological challenges that require careful consideration. Scholars must navigate ethical dilemmas, such as respecting the privacy and dignity of the disappeared and their families, while also seeking to uncover the truth and hold those responsible accountable.
Epistemological Challenges:
Epistemological challenges arise from the fact that disappearances are often shrouded in mystery and uncertainty. Scholars must navigate the complexities of evidence gathering, interpretation, and the construction of narratives that capture the experiences of the disappeared and their families.
Ethical Considerations:
Ethical considerations are of paramount importance in the study of disappearances. Scholars must ensure that their research is conducted with respect for the human rights and dignity of the disappeared and their families. They must also consider the potential impact of their research on the communities and societies they study.
Conclusion:
The phenomenon of disappearances is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires a multidisciplinary approach. By engaging ethnographically with disappearances in various cultural, social, and political contexts, this volume contributes to our understanding of these events and their impact on individuals, communities, and societies. It highlights the need for continued research, advocacy, and action to address the root causes of disappearances and ensure that the rights and dignity of the disappeared are protected.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781805390725