Arc of Interference: Medical Anthropology for Worlds on Edge

Arc of Interference offers a collection of essays that refigure our understanding of the real, ethical, and political in the face of social and planetary upheavals, advancing the notion of a care-ful ethnographic praxis of interference.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 408 pages
Publication date: 24 March 2023
Publisher: Duke University Press

Arc of Interference is a collection of thought-provoking essays that challenge our understanding of reality, ethics, and politics in the face of rapidly unfolding social and planetary transformations. Organized around the medical anthropological arc of Arthur Kleinman, these essays eschew conventional modes of intervention and advocate for a care-ful ethnographic praxis of interference. By interfering, we aim to disrupt ideals of naturalness, dismantle enduring binaries such as human/nonhuman, self/other, and us/them, and redirect technocratic agendas toward more relational and community-oriented goals.

The book offers a rich tapestry of multiple ethnographic arcs of interference, providing a valuable conceptual toolkit for navigating the complexities of our contemporary world. It serves as a much-needed moral perch from which we can glimpse just horizons and work towards a more equitable and sustainable future.

The contributors to Arc of Interference are a diverse group of scholars and practitioners who bring their expertise and perspectives to the table. They include Vincanne Adams, João Biehl, Davíd Carrasco, Lawrence Cohen, Jean Comaroff, Robert Desjarlais, Paul Farmer, Marcia Inhorn, Janis H. Jenkins, David S. Jones, Salmaan Keshavjee, Arthur Kleinman, Margaret Lock, and Adriana Petryna.

Each essay in the collection offers a unique perspective on the topic of interference, drawing from a range of disciplines and fields of study. From the ethical considerations of medical intervention to the political implications of humanitarian aid, the essays explore the complex interplay between power, knowledge, and social justice. They challenge us to think critically about the ways in which our interventions can either perpetuate or disrupt existing systems of inequality and oppression.

One of the key themes that emerges from the essays is the importance of relational knowledge and the will to create community. The contributors argue that interference cannot be solely driven by technological solutions or Western-centric frameworks. Instead, it requires a deep understanding of local contexts, cultural practices, and power dynamics. By engaging with communities on an equal footing and building partnerships based on respect and collaboration, we can create more effective and sustainable interventions that address the root causes of social and planetary challenges.

Another important aspect of the book is its commitment to challenging dominant narratives and ideologies. The contributors argue that the Western notion of humanitarianism, which often prioritizes the interests of Western nations and corporations, is flawed and perpetuates inequality and oppression. Instead, they advocate for a more nuanced and intersectional approach that recognizes the diverse experiences and needs of different communities. By challenging these narratives and promoting alternative perspectives, the book contributes to the broader discourse on social justice and human rights.

In conclusion, Arc of Interference is a thought-provoking and timely collection of essays that offers a valuable contribution to the field of anthropology and beyond. By challenging our understanding of reality, ethics, and politics, the book encourages us to think critically about the ways in which we can intervene in the world and work towards a more just and sustainable future. Whether you are a scholar, practitioner, or simply interested in social change, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of our contemporary world.

Weight: 602g
Dimension: 151 x 229 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781478019800