Anthropological Optimism: Engaging the Power of What Could Go Right

This book explores the roles of optimism in anthropological thinking, research, writing, and practice, emphasizing its value in addressing ecological disruption and social distress. It brings together scholars from diverse backgrounds to comprehend the intersections of anthropology and optimism, particularly in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Format: Hardback
Length: 204 pages
Publication date: 25 April 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book delves into the profound significance of optimism in anthropological thinking, research, writing, and practice. It aims to explore the origins and implications of optimism, its conceptual and practical value, and its potential to contribute to contemporary anthropological aims. In a time of widespread ecological disruption and social distress, this volume contemplates how an optimistic anthropology can invigorate the discipline while also improving the lives, communities, and environments of the people we study. It brings together scholars from diverse backgrounds, career stages, and theoretical approaches in a collective effort to understand the intricate intersections of anthropology and optimism.

The COVID-19 pandemic has recently brought to light the broader, longer-term catastrophes of climate change, ecosystemic collapse, social injustice, and antipathy toward scientific knowledge and those who produce it. In this context, few anthropologists feel comfortable observing and documenting passively while their research communities face relentless waves of (un)natural disasters. We need to act. But we also need to hope. Discontent with the state of the world and cultural anthropology's turn to increasingly positive, future-oriented, and engaged work have converged to unleash a courageously optimistic anthropology.

This book serves as a timely platform for this impactful and emerging approach.

Weight: 570g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032386430