Benedict, Anthropology and the Abnormal

Modern Social Anthropology

The focus of anthropology has shifted significantly to understanding cultural environments and their profound impact on human behavior. Primitive peoples are increasingly valued as they offer critical insights largely unaffected by the complexities of globalized civilization. Notable cultures like the Dyaks, Hopis, Fijians, and Yakuts are essential for gaining a deeper understanding of the psychological and sociological aspects of human life, particularly due to their distinctive localized social forms and rich traditions.

Cultural Norms and The Concept of Norm/Abnormal

A fundamental question arises regarding how categories of normal and abnormal are culturally determined. This leads to a crucial consideration of whether the capability to fulfill social functions is indicative of abnormality within a culture. A notable observation is that individuals labeled as 'abnormals' in one society may perform admirably in another. For example, trance states are often highlighted as instances where individuals viewed as outliers in one culture could hold esteemed positions in another, indicating a fluidity in perceptions of behavior based on cultural lenses.

Case Study: Trance and Catalepsy

In many cultures, extreme psychic phenomena are not only accepted but can be seen as normal and even desirable. Historical examples show that trance experiences were highly esteemed, often linked to a spiritual calling, particularly in Catholicism. In the California Indian tribes, women shamans who experienced trance states were revered as embodiments of spiritual power, indicating a culturally specific framework where such experiences are validated and honored. The study of these trance states reveals significant cultural variances in the appreciation of altered states of consciousness.

Functionality of 'Abnormal' Individuals in Different Cultures

Many individuals considered 'abnormals' in a contemporary context function positively within their cultural frameworks. The roles of shamans can drastically differ across various cultures, as illustrated by examples from Siberia and California. In Siberian cultures, extreme states of health and illness are perceived as sources of divine power, further shaping community dynamics. In South African Zulu culture, insights often reflect a breakdown of conventional definitions of 'normal', as individuals embark on personal journeys towards divinity, supported by their community. This suggests that the understanding of normalcy is deeply embedded in cultural narratives and practices.

Homosexuality in Culture

Homosexual tendencies are viewed with notable variability across different societies, often filling acceptable roles without conflict in cultures that value these attributes. For instance, in ancient Greece, homosexuality was accepted and seen as a pathway to a well-rounded life, contrasting starkly with contemporary norms in some other regions. This divergence illustrates how cultural perspectives can shape attitudes toward sexual orientation and identity.

Cultural Perspectives on Abnormality

Examples of complex behaviors observed among the Kwakiutl and Melanesians reveal the diversity of cultural attitudes towards behaviors typically classified as abnormal. For instance, Kwakiutl warriors exhibit paradoxical behaviors where actions deemed unacceptable in contemporary societies are celebrated within their own cultural contexts. These behaviors, often related to vengeance and mourning, underscore the importance of understanding that cultural values dictate what is considered an acceptable response to death and stress, showcasing that normality is not a static concept but rather one influenced by temporal and cultural factors.

Conclusion: Relativity of Normality

Ultimately, the understanding of normality and abnormality emerges as a relative concept, constructed and defined by cultural contexts. Societal constructs deeply influence the categorization and valuation of various behaviors. Factors such as mental health perceptions and societal integration are profoundly influenced by cultural norms, which evolve over cumulative historical trajectories. Future research in anthropology should aim to delineate core definitions of abnormality against a broader cultural backdrop, fostering a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of human behavior.