Theorizing Relations in Indigenous South America: Edited by Marcelo Gonzalez Galvez, Piergiogio Di Giminiani and Giovanna Bacchiddu

Anthropological inquiries mainly focus on relations, which have been explored through local ontological theories and comparative ethnographic research. This volume demonstrates the importance of ethnographic diversity and the ability of comparative ethnography to illustrate complex questions surrounding relations in the context of modern coloniality.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 13 May 2022
Publisher: Berghahn Books

Anthropological inquiries have always centered around relationships, whether they were invented, discovered, implicit, or explicitly addressed. Initially, these relationships were perceived as self-evident connections between distinct social units during ethnographic fieldwork. However, as time passed, local ontological theories began to shed light on these relationships, broadening our understanding of them. This comprehensive collection examines how ethnographies of indigenous South America have played a significant role in shaping this analytical shift. It highlights the enduring significance of ethnographic diversity and demonstrates how comparative ethnographic research can provide valuable insights into complex questions related to relations in the context of modern coloniality.

In the early days of anthropology, researchers relied on ethnographic fieldwork to observe and understand the relationships between different social units. These relationships were often taken for granted as self-evident connections, without much questioning or analysis. However, as anthropologists delved deeper into their research, they began to recognize the complexities and nuances of these relationships. Local ontological theories emerged as a way to understand these relationships from a more nuanced perspective. These theories focused on the specific cultural and social contexts in which these relationships existed and emphasized the importance of understanding the local perspectives and worldviews of the people involved.

One of the key contributions of ethnographies of indigenous South America to this analytical shift has been their emphasis on the diversity of ethnographic approaches. Indigenous communities in South America have a rich and complex history, and their relationships with each other and the natural world are shaped by a wide range of cultural practices, beliefs, and values. Ethnographers have approached these communities with a variety of methods and perspectives, including participant observation, interviews, and cultural analysis. This diversity of approaches has allowed researchers to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and nuances of these relationships and to develop a more comprehensive understanding of the cultural and social contexts in which they exist.

Another important aspect of this collection is its assertion that comparative ethnographic research can help illustrate complex questions surrounding relations vis-à-vis the homogenizing effects of modern coloniality. Modern colonialism has had a profound impact on the cultures and societies of indigenous South America, leading to the loss of traditional practices, beliefs, and values. Comparative ethnographic research can provide valuable insights into how these communities have responded to these challenges and how they have adapted to the changing social and cultural landscape. By comparing different indigenous communities and their relationships with each other and the natural world, researchers can identify common patterns and trends and develop a more nuanced understanding of the complex processes of cultural change and adaptation.

In conclusion, ethnographies of indigenous South America have played a significant role in shaping the analytical shift in anthropological inquiry toward relationships. By emphasizing the diversity of ethnographic approaches and the importance of understanding local perspectives and worldviews, these ethnographies have helped to broaden our understanding of these relationships and to develop a more comprehensive understanding of the cultural and social contexts in which they exist. Comparative ethnographic research can also provide valuable insights into the complex questions surrounding relations in the context of modern coloniality, helping to shed light on the ways in which these relationships are shaped and transformed by the forces of globalization and cultural change.

Weight: 292g
Dimension: 153 x 228 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800733305